History of Trancoso
Founded by the Jesuits at the debut of the Portuguese colonization, Trancoso was originally named Saint-Jean in order to facilitate the propagation of Christianity across Brazil.
In the 1970s the small fishing village became a favorite spot for hippies before quickly becoming a world-renowned destination. However, Trancoso has retained a tad of its bohemian allure in its simplicity, far from the ‘bling-bling’ locals sought after by the jet set.
THE QUADRADO
The historic and cultural centre of the village, the Quadrado de Trancoso is registered as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the end of the day it comes alive with a football match or an improvised boss nova concert.
Covered with a thick layer of grass, this immense space looks as if it was especially created for photographing post cards. On three sides, the old fishing homes – for the most part have been converted into restaurants and boutiques – retain their variegated colours.
On the fourth side, the wide facade of the São João Batista church, which was built in the 16th Century, stands out against the blue of the Atlantic Ocean. Magic Ocean. Magical, quite simply magical…
Trancoso Culture and festas
Brazil has a worldwide reputation for its parties and festive culture, Trancoso is not an exception.
Top parties of the city:
- Full Moon
- Festa de São Brás
- Festa de lemanja
- Festival Musica en Trancoso
Full moon nights
Full moon nights at Trancoso are like no other! During each cycle, tradition calls for a big beach party with a giant bonfire, capoeira and DJs with, in the background, the moon reflecting in the vast ocean !
Festa de São Brás
The day after the lemanja festival, the celebrations continue in honour of São Brás. The beat of drums resonates throughout the night and tourists are invited to mingle with local residents. The highlight comes late in the day, when the new Quadrado mast is raised by the men of the village.
Festa de lemanja
On February 2, a crowd of the faithful and the curious come together at the Quadrado and the Trancoso beaches for a tribute to the goddess of the sea. Several offerings, from flowers to perfumes, candles and treats of all sorts are blessed before being presented to lemanja.
Festival Musica en Trancoso
Trancoso’s passion for music and beauty inspired the Festival’s emergence in 2012. Since its first edition, the event has attracted public interest and demand for tickets has increased steadily in recent years.
With the increasing demand for tickets and the expansion of event structures, a commitment has been born: to thank the place that welcomes us with open arms by encouraging the development of the local community.
In March, internationally renowned musicians from Brazil and around the world organized eight days of concerts, both classical and popular, open to the local community and visitors.
“Musica em Trancoso” is much more than a big festival, of music. It has been designed to be a factor of sustainable development beneficial for all.
Lifestyle : Capoeira in Trancoso
Born from the colonial era and symbol of the black slave resistance, the capoeira is a form of martial arts characterised by its playful and often acrobatic side. The Various forms of capoeira are played at different speeds, most often accompanied by music. It is possible to learn them to develop agility and power. Our concierge service will be happy to organise individual or group lessons at Casa Angatu within the Trancoso capoeira association.
Live an unforgettable experience at Casa Angatu. Enjoy all the comfort of a luxury villa
