Picture a garden. Now, imagine a whole neighborhood designed like one. That’s Bairro dos Ingleses. It is a unique spot nestled mostly within Maria da Graça. A small part extends into Del Castilho. Today, we will explore the story of this fascinating place.
Bairro dos Ingleses translates to “Neighborhood of the English”. The name hints at its origins. The neighborhood’s story begins in 1925. The Companhia Immobiliaria Nacional S/A created the “Bairro-Jardim Maria da Graça”. This translates to “Maria da Graça Garden Neighborhood.” It was inspired by the English garden city concept.
The neighborhood reflects this inspiration. You will see plazas and lots of trees. The sidewalks are wide. The streets curve in a unique urban layout. The Bairro dos Ingleses name came from the British citizens. They were hired by the now defunct Companhia Nacional de Tecidos Nova América. This was a textile company. Many British employees lived here. The company bought and built houses in the area. These homes were for their employees and families.
The high-ranking positions at the factory were held not only by the English. Germans, French, Japanese, Spanish, and Portuguese citizens also lived here. By the 1980s, the textile company faced hard times. Production dropped. They hired fewer workers. In 1991, they closed their facilities. The company began selling its properties in Bairro dos Ingleses. Foreign employees and their families bought many of these homes.
In 1995, seventy years after the factory opened, the Nova América Shopping mall opened in the same building. The mall kept the original Manchester architecture. The large exposed brick facades reflect England’s influence.
Bairro dos Ingleses still has many buildings. The Companhia Immobiliaria Nacional S/A and the textile company built these. Many houses date back to the 1920s. They were the first in the Maria da Graça neighborhood. The houses showcase different architectural styles. You will find German and Neocolonial influences. Art Déco and Neoclassical styles are also present. Some buildings do not follow a specific style.
These houses were for the textile company’s senior staff. So, they are generally large and well-finished. The real estate market recognizes the neighborhood. It is known as the most valuable area in Maria da Graça and Del Castilho. It is considered a noble area in Rio’s North Zone.
Locals use the area for recreation. People enjoy walking and running along the tree-lined streets and wide sidewalks. Some of the large houses have become party venues. They host weddings and anniversary parties.
The “Feira do Bairro dos Ingleses” or “Bairro dos Ingleses Fair” takes place monthly. It is held in the Largo da Rua Pires de Carvalho. Created in 2017, the fair has traditional red and white tents. The fair promotes the local economy. It features live music and artisan products. Food vendors offer tasty treats. There are also children’s activities.
Near the metro station, you will find many bars. They often have live music. There are also parking lots nearby.
The “Clube do Pepino” is on Rua Silva Rosa. It is home to the traditional Luso-Brazilian society. Banda Irmãos Pepino founded it on March 15, 1958. The club rents its sports gymnasium. Schools and other groups use it for sports and events.
Bairro dos Ingleses offers a glimpse into Rio’s past. It is a reminder of the international influences that shaped the city. Take a stroll through its streets. Feel the unique atmosphere. Imagine the lives of those who once called this place home.