Kiri-Kerê

Kiri-Kerê was an Indigenous name of the river later known as the Cricaré or São Mateus in northern Espírito Santo. Portuguese occupation of its banks brought violent conflict. In 1558 an expedition commanded by Fernão de Sá fought Indigenous defenders near the meeting of the Cricaré and Mariricu rivers. Fernão was killed, and the fighting inflicted heavy losses on the Indigenous population.

Settlement subsequently developed around São Mateus and the river's mouth. From 1721 crown representative Antônio de Oliveira Madail encouraged migration, arranging boats to carry families there without charge. Sugar cane and manioc were cultivated, and in 1764 São Mateus obtained municipal autonomy. Manioc flour, sugar and timber became important products. The river linked the inland settlement with the anchorage at Barra de São Mateus, giving the valley a role in coastal commerce while colonial occupation displaced its earlier inhabitants.