Avaré, São Paulo

For the play L'Avare by Molière, see The Miser.
Avaré, São Paulo

Flag

Seal
Nickname(s): National capital of the Horse
Coordinates:
Country Brazil
State São Paulo
Government
 • Mayor Rogélio Barcheti Urrêa (2009/2012)
Area
 • Total 1,216 km2 (469.5 sq mi)
Elevation 766 m (2,513 ft)
Population (2005)
 • Total 86,102
Time zone Horário Oficial de Brasília (UTC-3)
 • Summer (DST) Horário Oficial de Verão (UTC-2)
Website Prefeitura

Avaré is a city in the State of São Paulo, Brazil, located 270 km from the capital. Established on September 15, 1861 by Major Vitoriano de Souza Rocha and Domiciano Santana, the city was developed around the chapel of Our Lady of the Good Death ("Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte").

The population in 2000 was about 77,000 inhabitants. The economy is based on agriculture, cattle ranching and tourism. The attractions include the Jurumirim Hydroelectric Dam. The city has its own airport, Avaré-Arandu Airport.

Tourism is an important aspect in Avaré, which today is virtually a large ranch. Traditional events occur throughout the year, such as the Feira das Nações (Fair of the Nations), where typical foods of various countries are served, and the FAMPOP, (Fair of Popular Music), whose objective is to highlight and award singers, musicians and composers. Natural attractions such as Terra da Água, do Verde e do Sol ("Land of water, the green, and the sun") also invite tourists to the beauty of Avaré's large reservoir.

The city is also distinguished as a center of higher education. Many students from the surrounding region come to Avaré seeking a quality education and a chance to study. The Faculdade Sudoeste Paulista (São Paulo State Southwest College) and other higher education institutions are located there.

External links

Gallery