Piracicaba

Piracicaba stands beside the river of the same name in the interior of São Paulo. A waterfall marks the river near the settlement, while its waters continue toward the Tietê and Paraná. The surrounding country of rolling hills and wooded valleys was connected by river and road to the routes leading into the western interior.

The Portuguese founded a settlement here in 1767, intending it to support navigation and the defence of their inland frontier. A landing below the falls provided a stopping place and supplies for travellers going along these routes. Sugar production grew in the district: by 1799 nine mills were recorded. The estates and mills drew on enslaved labour as Piracicaba developed into a centre of agriculture and exchange.