Craving a change of pace? Santa Terezinha offers a serene escape. This noble neighborhood in Sāo Paulo is located in the northern zone. It is part of the Santana district.
Santa Terezinha’s story begins with a name change. The area was once known as “Chora Menino.” This translates to “Crying Boy”. This somber name came from a cemetery. Many children were buried there in the 19th century. They had succumbed to smallpox. Families mourned or “cried” for their boys.
To escape this association with disease, Padre Orlando Chaves proposed a new name in 1933. He suggested Santa Teresinha. This name honors Saint Theresa of Lisieux. She is also known as Santa Teresa do Menino Jesus. The name change gained popular support. Petitioners circulated among the residents.
Even the buses got involved. Padres Quintiliano and Bruno secured permission. They placed signs on buses. These signs read: “BAIRRO SANTA TERESINHA”. This helped spread the new name throughout the city. In the same decade, the Paróquia Santa Teresinha was built. The Salesiano Santa Teresinha School was also built.
The Tramway da Cantareira played a vital role in Santa Terezinha’s development. This urban railway connected Pari to Serra da Cantareira. It was essential for the northern zone’s growth. The tramway linked peripheral areas to the city center. It also eased transport of people and goods. In 1934, the tram station in the neighborhood changed its name. It went from “Chora Menino” to “Santa Terezinha”.
Over the years, Santa Terezinha grew. Houses, small industries, and commercial establishments emerged. Today, it remains a tranquil. It is a family-friendly neighborhood. It provides easy access to Santana, the city center and Marginal Tietê. Many Portuguese immigrants have made Santa Terezinha their home. Rua Nova dos Portugueses honors their contributions.
Today, Santa Terezinha maintains its charm. The neighborhood is relatively small. Rua Conselheiro Moreira de Barros marks its approximate start. Avenida Engenheiro Caetano Álvares marks its end.
Santa Terezinha has undergone some changes. The area has become more upscale. Private investments are modernizing homes. Luxury buildings are also under construction. Rua Santo Egídio had the second most expensive square meter in the northern zone in 2011.
Santa Terezinha’s story is one of transformation. It is a shift from sorrow to serenity. The neighborhood offers a blend of history and modern life. It stands as a testament to community spirit. It is a tribute to its namesake saint.