Bauru’s beginnings are tied to the expansion of the railway system in the late 1800s. Founded in 1896, the city’s growth was fueled by the influx of immigrants from diverse nations, attracted by opportunities for work and fertile land. Italian, Spanish, Japanese, and other immigrant communities left their imprint on Bauru, still evident in its vibrant blend of architecture styles and cultural traditions.

Bauru was the central meeting point for the state’s three primary railway lines. This pivotal position spurred the city’s development and significantly boosted its commerce and industry. The architecture of that period reflects this prosperity, with stately homes and historic buildings that continue to evoke bygone periods, preserving their memory.

Designed in 1934, the Estação Ferroviária de Bauru (NOB) Railway Station, is one of the city’s main landmarks—a striking example of Art Deco architecture and once one of South America’s major railway hubs. Today, it preserves much of its original structure, with a mix of carefully restored and weathered carriages, offering a vivid picture of the city’s development and the history of rail transport in Brazil.

Inaugurated in 1908, the Cemitério da Saudade is yet another historical landmark, with its heritage-listed façade and a wide range of architectural styles. Its mausoleums, sculptures, and decorative elements reflect the artistic influences that shaped the city over time.

Just twenty-two kilometers from Bauru lies the town of Agudos, home to the striking Seminário Santo Antônio. Built in 1950, the building features a robust neoclassical design with pale tones, arched openings, stained-glass windows, and richly detailed ornamentation. Despite its neoclassical style, the cloisters and rows of small monastic rooms lend the place a medieval atmosphere—making it a versatile filming location. The church is impressively built, with elegant detailing, and features a spectacular pipe organ, one of only two of its kind in Brazil.

Roughly forty-four kilometers away, Lençóis Paulista is known for its grape and wine production. One of its highlights is the Vinícola Casagrande winery, with modern architecture featuring exposed brick and a wooden ceiling. A large decorative barrel and a wine-cask-shaped bar add a playful and charming touch to the place, delighting visitors.

Bauru is located in the heart of São Paulo State and benefits from excellent transport infrastructure, with easy access via major highways. The city is also served by the Moussa Nakhl Tobias Airport, which offers both regional and domestic flights. For international travel, Viracopos Airport, in Campinas, is about 290 kilometers away. Bauru offers a comprehensive infrastructure for large-scale audiovisual productions, as well as a wide variety of hotels and restaurants.

Today, Bauru is a modern, dynamic city that still retains its historical and cultural roots. The city and surrounding region are home to museums, cultural centers, historic buildings, and scenic rural landscapes.

Nearest international airport: Viracopos (VCP)
Distance to nearest airport: 280 km
Distance to São Paulo: 346 km
Distance to GRU Airport: 364 km