Praia dos Tamoios

Gazing across Praia dos Tamoios, can you picture the Tupinambá families who once walked these sands? Praia dos Tamoios, on the enchanting Ilha de Paquetá, is named in honor of the indigenous Tupinambá tribe. These native people, along with their rivals, the Temiminós, were the original inhabitants of the lands surrounding Guanabara Bay. While the beach carries their name, the actual history of the Tupinambá presence on Paquetá is shrouded in both legend and fact. Author Vivaldo Coracy, a former resident of Paquetá, argues against the popular belief that the Tupinambá were permanent residents of the island. His book “Paquetá” highlights the lack of historical or archaeological evidence to support this claim. No traces of indigenous settlements, pottery fragments, or other artifacts have ever been found on the island. Praia dos Tamoios, to the right of the ferry station, offers a serene escape with its narrow strip of sand and calm waters. Interestingly, Paquetá lacks natural freshwater sources. Indigenous tribes of the region did not possess the knowledge to dig wells or cisterns. This absence of fresh water further supports Coracy’s argument against permanent indigenous settlements. He suggests that while the Tupinambá, Temiminós, or other tribes may have visited the island during their canoe voyages, perhaps seeking fruits or exploring, they did not live there. It’s worth noting that Praia dos Tamoios originally bore the name “Praia do Estaleiro” (Shipyard Beach). This name stemmed from the shipyards that once operated there, servicing the bustling lime industry of colonial times. The name change, proposed by painter Pedro Bruno, a Paquetá resident in the early 20th century, was a romantic gesture. It was intended to honor the indigenous peoples of Guanabara Bay, even if their connection to Paquetá remains a subject of debate. So, as you relax on the sands of Praia dos Tamoios, remember the layers of history beneath your feet. From colonial shipyards to the romanticized memory of the Tupinambá, this tranquil beach whispers stories of a rich and complex past.