at a glance

In 1919 Penha became an independent district and two decades later it received the Hospital Estadual Getúlio Vargas, or 'Getúlio Vargas State Hospital'. At this time the region was already developing steadily, with industries establishing themselves amidst urbanization efforts.

In 1920 the Curtume Carioca, or 'Carioca Tannery', opened, which brought together tanneries and producers of fur and leather to create Art Nouveau synthetic goods; the establishment closed in 1990 as a result of the nationwide economic crisis.

Cultural and religious establishments and activities endowed Penha with its unique identity. The Festa da Penha, or 'Penha Festival', a colorful celebration, full of cheerful music, food, drink and dance, continues to take place each year, during the months of October and November. It was at this festival that the first recorded Samba, 'Pelo Telefone', or 'By Phone', was released, which was an important event in the history of the quintessential Brazilian genre.