Once upon a time, amateur soccer players spontaneously used the floodplains of the Pinheiros River. This was back in the 1930s. Today, we stand at Parque do Povo. It’s a vibrant testament to S\u00e3o Paulo’s evolving urban landscape.
Parque do Povo officially known as Parque M\u00e1rio Pimenta Camargo, opened on September 28, 2008. It is located in Itaim Bibi. This 133,547-square-meter park offers a green refuge. It stands in the midst of the bustling city.
Before Parque do Povo existed in its current form the area had a different story. The Pinheiros River hadn’t yet undergone rectification. That process started in 1938. The river’s course changed. The land that now forms the park shifted too. Initially, the land belonged to pension funds and construction companies. Later, it was transferred to Caixa Econ\u00f4mica Federal due to debts.
In the 1980s and 90s, the area became known for “v\u00e1rzea” soccer games. Urban growth and increasing real estate values led to discussions about the land’s future. In 1995, the Council for the Defense of Historical, Archaeological, Artistic, and Tourist Heritage protected the area. The goal was to preserve the space.
After years of debate, Parque do Povo emerged. Andr\u00e9 Graziano, the architect, transformed the area. Only the grass soccer field remained from the old park.
Parque do Povo has sports courts. These courts have special markings for paralympic sports. There is also a cycling track and a running track. A real-life chess game invites people to move huge pieces. Exercise equipment is available. A central lawn provides space for sunbathing and picnics.
The Sensitive Garden offers aromatic herbs. People can smell, touch, and even taste some of the plants. Mustard, coriander, chives, aloe, and basil grow here. The park is fully accessible. Materials recovered from city demolitions were used in its construction. These materials include recyclable waste from buildings in central S\u00e3o Paulo.
Parque do Povo boasts diverse fauna and flora. Over 37 bird species inhabit the park. These include scissor-tailed hummingbirds and great kiskadees. You might spot macaws and coconut tanagers. There are 32 plant species. Native and exotic fruit trees grow together. Grumixama and brazilwood are among the endangered species.
Today, Parque do Povo welcomes about 4 million visitors each year. It stands as a green haven. It is a place for recreation. It is also a reminder of the city’s history. It once was a simple floodplain for soccer.