What if I told you that this peak held stories of both struggle and breathtaking beauty? Right here we are at Morro da Margarida. It is a location with historical significance. It’s time to delve into its past.
Morro da Margarida is located near Horto. The Horto community was founded by workers of the Botanical Garden in 1808. They were allowed to settle on land next to the park. The area’s history stretches back further. Indigenous slaves lived here in the 16th century. They worked on nearby plantations. Historians are still researching whether indigenous Brazilians settled here before the colonial period.
One of the oldest surviving buildings in Horto was built by indigenous slaves. It may date back to 1575. This was the first sugar cane plantation in the area.
Morro das Margaridas was once a slave quarter. A large house there was called a senzala. Workers needed to live close to their work. The house was shared by four or five families.
Herbal medicine was a tradition here. If someone had liver or stomach problems, they knew which herb to use. This knowledge was passed down through generations. Many plants in the area came from Africa. They were brought by African slaves.
After being a sugar cane plantation, the land became a gunpowder factory. Then the Botanical Garden allowed its workers to build homes here. This allowed them and their families to live closer to work. The Director of the Botanical Garden gave them this right.
Horto has strong musical roots. Many residents remember the samba music. It was played by members of the community. This was especially true during Carnival celebrations.
Horto has faced threats of removal. One resident named Sr. Luighi Schicarino fought against eviction. This happened when a condo development was planned in the 1960s. The current Horto Neighborhood Association continues to fight against removal.
The community has historical documents. They prove residents have the right to live here. This right has been maintained since the 1800s. Despite this, the community’s future is uncertain.
In March, Brazil’s Environment Minister announced the removal of 130 families from Horto. This was supposedly to expand the Botanical Garden Research Institute. However, the community is determined to fight the eviction threat.
The slogan “Horto: History with Roots” was displayed at a community protest. The community celebrates its history. It uses its heritage and historical rights to fight against eviction.
Today as you stand here at Morro da Margarida, remember its layered past. It’s a place of resilience, cultural richness and enduring community spirit.