Nicknamed “The City of Workers” due to its blue-collar population, East São Paulo is a large sub-district in this Brazilian metropolis. It was previously occupied by farms and local industries, until migrants began moving in during the mid-20th century, giving the area a more cosmopolitan flavour.
Things to do in Itaquera
East São Paulo is home to the city’s oldest surviving church, Capela de São Miguel Arcanjo which sits perched atop a hill in the neighbourhood of Penha, with many of its original furnishings still visible today.
While its neighbourhoods are largely residential, East São Paulo is also known for its green spaces. Parque do Carmo is home to a lush stretch of preserved rainforest, with an eight-kilometre-long cycling path to explore and beautiful cherry blossoms that are managed by the local Japanese community. It’s also home to the city’s most modern planetarium where you can peer through telescopes at the night sky and attend space-related exhibitions.
Parque Ecológico do Tietê sprawls along the south bank of the Tietê River and protects a tract of rainforest where monkeys, coat is and capybaras can be spotted. Hire a paddleboat to explore its picturesque lake or visit the Museu do Tietê to gain a better understanding of local environmental issues.
Travelling with the kids? Then don’t miss a visit to the amusement park of Itaquera, where you’ll find exciting roller coasters, mini trains and a water park to cool off during the hot summer months.
Getting around Itaquera
East São Paulo is connected to the city centre by both metro and train services, with stations located in most of the sub-district’s neighbourhoods. Cycling is another great way to get around, particularly if you want to explore the nature parks, with dedicated cycle pathways.