Bananal is a historic town in the state of São Paulo, situated in what is known as the Vale Histórico, or Historic Valley. The city was founded in the 18th century, spurred by the expansion of coffee cultivation, which brought prosperity to the region, traces of which are still visible in the town’s colonial-style mansions, churches, and farmhouses, which have preserved much of their original character. Bananal became a major political and economic center, where coffee barons flaunted their wealth and power.

In its historic center, preserved cobblestone streets lead to Praça Pedro Ramos square, which features a charming bandstand and a cast-iron fountain imported from Europe in 1880. The square is surrounded by 19th-century colonial-era houses that evoke the atmosphere of bygone times. Of special note is the Pharmacia Popular drugstore, considered the first drugstore in Brazil, which is still in operation today, with its original façade intact.

Another important landmark is the Estação Ferroviária de Bananal railway station, inaugurated in 1889 with funding from local coffee barons. The structure is made of prefabricated iron plates imported from Belgium. Though deactivated in 1964, the station has since been restored, preserving its original architecture and historical features.

In the surrounding rural areas, historic farms still bear witness to the coffee boom, with preserved manor houses and former slave quarters. One of the most striking examples is Fazenda Loanda, built in 1790 and known for its neoclassical façade and hand-carved wooden furniture, much of which was imported from France. One of the farm’s notable features is a bell surrounded by stone walls, historically used to ring out the hours. Also of note is Fazenda dos Coqueiros, built in 1855, where the original slave quarters remain preserved.

São José do Barreiro, about forty kilometers from Bananal, at the foot of the Serra da Bocaina mountain range, is home to colonial-era buildings and boasts a rich cultural heritage. One of its most striking sites is the overgrown ruins of the Cemitério dos Escravizados, or Enslaved People’s Cemetery, whose stone graves—some of which feature carved ornamentation—are still visible among the vegetation. About sixty-nine kilometers from Bananal is the town of Areias, where the Mirante da Revolução Constitucionalista, or Constitutionalist Revolution Lookout Point, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, a site that serves as a poignant reminder of Brazil’s history.

Bananal itself may have modest infrastructure, but it is easily accessible by road. The nearest airport is Viracopos, in Campinas, 290 kilometers away, which offers a wide range of domestic and international flights. The surrounding area also offers a wide range of accommodation and dining options.

The region, with its rich historical and cultural heritage, offers an immersive glimpse into Brazil’s colonial past. Its well-preserved buildings, historic farms, and natural landscapes tell the story of the coffee boom and the diverse cultural influences that helped shape the region.

Nearest international airport: Galeão (GIG)
Distance to nearest airport: 152 km
Distance to São Paulo: 326 km
Distance to GRU Airport: 308 km