Remember the thrill of the races. It used to echo through what is now Parque da Vila Guilherme-Trote. Today, we explore this green space. It is located in Vila Guilherme, Zona Norte of S\u00e3o Paulo.
Parque da Vila Guilherme-Trote has a rich history. It began as the Club Hypico in 1937. Guilherme Praun da Silva, a German businessman, bought the land in 1912. He built stables, bleachers and a racetrack. After his death in 1944, his family sold it. The Sociedade Paulista de Trote then took over.
The Sociedade Paulista de Trote adapted the club. They created an official racetrack. Horse races became official in 1947. The elite of S\u00e3o Paulo flocked here. They placed bets. The news reported the race results.
But the good times faded. By the 1970s, the crowds dwindled. The Sociedade Paulista de Trote sold land to R\u00e1dio Tupi to survive. In 1986, the city expropriated part of the land. This led to the creation of Parque Vila Guilherme.
In 2005, the city integrated the remaining area. They joined it with Parque Vila Guilherme. This formed the Parque do Trote. In 2012, the park was recognized as a historic landmark.
The Parque Vila Guilherme-Trote covers 187,000 square meters. It offers running tracks and bike paths. There are playgrounds and sports courts.
The park is known for its diverse flora. You can find cinamomo and jatob\u00e1 trees. Mangifera, paineira, pitangueira and tipuana trees are also present. The park is home to 45 fauna species including birds and butterflies.
The Parque Vila Guilherme-Trote is more than just a park. It preserves the history of Vila Guilherme. It was the first and only official trotting track in Brazil. Today, the Parque Vila Guilherme-Trote offers activities. Capoeira, Muay Thai, Zumba and photography courses are available. Schools visit for environmental education.
Take a moment to appreciate the architecture. The park retains features of the old Sociedade Paulista de Trote. The original entrance, administration building and party hall remain. Even the grandstands and ticket booths still stand.
The Parque Vila Guilherme-Trote stands as a testament. It shows how a space can evolve. It went from a horse racing club to a public park. It is a place for leisure, sports and community. It honors its past. It embraces the future.