Visiting Sao Lourenco Park
Sao Lourenco Park is a green space located in the city of Curitiba, Brazil, with a distinct history. In 1970, the Sao Lourenco dam burst, flooding the area that at the time belonged to the Adubos Boutin glue factory. To mitigate future environmental risks, local authorities chose to transform the site into a park. The only remnant of the original factory is its brick chimney. Today, the park is a prime spot for walking around the lake formed by the Belem River, observing local flora and fauna, or getting in a workout.
A Blend of Nature and Culture
Over the decades, the park has become a landmark for the Paranista art movement, which emerged in the state of Parana alongside Brazilian modernism during the 20th century. Paranismo aimed to redefine the identity of Brazil and Parana by drawing on local flora, fauna, and indigenous history. As a result, 15 giant bronze statues by sculptor Joao Turin are scattered throughout the grounds, depicting scenes like jaguar fights, wolves, and indigenous chiefs. The park also houses a Memorial featuring craft workshops, an auditorium, and an exhibition hall.
Relaxation in Curitiba
Sao Lourenco Park serves as a refuge for a wide variety of wildlife and plant species, including rodents, bats, cormorants, owls, and pine trees descended from the Araucaria forest that once covered the region. It is a popular spot for outdoor fitness thanks to various exercise stations, and you can even find more unique activities like soapbox derby racing on a dedicated track.
Nice, but nothing too crazy! The relatively small size has a lot to do with that. Just watch out for the capybaras, they are pretty skittish and protective of their little ones :)