historic center · Garibaldi, RS
Centro Histórico (Rua Buarque de Macedo)
Laid out in 1879, Rua Buarque de Macedo has dozens of buildings put up mostly between the 1880s and the 1930s, with French, Portuguese and Italian influences. The cobblestone paving and underground wiring preserve the old look of the ensemble.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Centro Histórico (Rua Buarque de Macedo)
Rua Buarque de Macedo is the heart of Garibaldi's Historic Center, in Serra Gaúcha. It's the oldest and most photographed street in town, known for its row of preserved mansions along just a few blocks.
The street was laid out in the late 19th century as part of the main road linking the immigrant settlements to the state capital. It was later named Buarque de Macedo, after a minister of Agriculture and Public Works of the Empire. Most of the buildings went up between the late 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, built by families of Italian, French and Syrian origin.
You explore on foot, at an easy pace. The cobblestones, old lampposts and underground wiring help keep the period feel. Many buildings have plaques with the history of the building and of who lived there. The Rota Passadas, the town's tourist route, brings these mansions together. Along the way are the Igreja Matriz São Pedro, cafés, shops and the Praça das Rosas.
It's a free, easy outing, good if you enjoy architecture, immigration history and photography. It pairs well with a visit to Garibaldi's wineries and sparkling wine houses on the same day.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours to walk the street at a relaxed pace, go into the church and stop at a café.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, when the low light brings out the facades; spring and fall have pleasant weather for walking.
How to get there
It's in the center of Garibaldi, about 110 km from Porto Alegre and close to Bento Gonçalves. If you arrive by car, you can park on nearby streets and continue on foot.
Tip
Read the plaques on the facades: they tell who built each mansion. Wear comfortable shoes, because the street is cobblestoned.
A look at the place
Centro Histórico (Rua Buarque de Macedo) in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Centro Histórico (Rua Buarque de Macedo)
Where is Garibaldi's Historic Center?
On Rua Buarque de Macedo and nearby streets, in the town center, near the Igreja Matriz São Pedro.
Is there a fee to visit Rua Buarque de Macedo?
No. The street is public and the walk is free.
What is the Rota Passadas?
It's the tourist route that brings together the historic mansions of downtown Garibaldi, built by Italian, French and Syrian families. You can do it on foot.
How long does it take to see the Historic Center?
1 to 2 hours is enough to walk at a relaxed pace, read the plaques on the facades and visit the church.
Can I see the Historic Center and the wineries on the same day?
Yes. The walk downtown is short and pairs well with visits to the town's wineries and sparkling wine houses.