Brazil,Morro de São Paulo,

Brazil,Morro de São Paulo,

Brazil,Morro de São Paulo,

The geographical importance of the island during the colonial period justifies the richness of historical monuments, today protected by the National Historical Patrimony. 1531 Martim Afonso of Sousa lands in the Tinharé Island, which eventually becomes part of the Captaincy of São Jorge dos Ilhéus. D.João III donates the land to Jorge of Figueiredo Correa, who begins settlement. 1535 Francisco Romero and the local population found Morro de São Paulo village, located on the extreme north part of the island. 1624 Commander Johan Van Dortt and his squad land on the island during their route to Salvador. 1628 The Dutch Almirant Pieterzoon Hiyn leads an attack and loots the village. 1630 Governor Diogo Luiz of Oliveira initiates construction of the Fortress. 1728 Completion of the Forte da Ponta Fortress and wall along the island. Defeat of the French Admiral Villegaignon by Portuguese troops. 1746 Construction of Fonte Grande, the largest water supply system of colonial Bahia. 1845 Conclusion of the Church and Santo Antônio Convent, the N. Sra da Luz Chapel. 1855 Engineer Carson finalizes the construction of the lighthouse. 1859 The Royal Family and D. Pedro II. visit the island. The village is 272 km from the city of Salvador by route and 60 km by sea. The only way to get to the island is by boat or by charter flights that go from the airport of Salvador to the local airstrip or by regular flights to Valença Airport. Cars are forbidden on Morro de São Paulo. The only method of motorized transportation on the island is by tractor, which carries passengers to other distant beaches, to pousadas (small hotels) on Third, Fourth and Second Beach (the closest to the village) and to the airport.