Monument to the Independence of Brazil, Granite and bronze monument at Independence Park, São Paulo, Brazil.
The Monumento à Independência do Brasil is a granite and bronze monument at Parque da Independência in São Paulo. The structure extends across multiple levels with staircases and terraces leading to a central platform featuring allegorical sculptures, while the facade displays reliefs depicting scenes from Brazilian history.
Construction began in 1884 to celebrate the first century of Brazilian independence and continued until 1926 under the direction of Italian sculptor Ettore Ximenes and architect Manfredo Manfredi. Completion stretched across decades due to political changes and funding issues that repeatedly delayed the original project.
The name Monumento à Independência refers to the historical cry of Dom Pedro in September 1822, which took place directly on this spot. The four bronze figures at the corners represent political personalities whose faces and postures symbolize the role of civil society in the independence process.
The grounds open every day and access is through several entrances from the surrounding park area, allowing for flexible planning. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as the staircases and terraces involve multiple steps, and avoid midday when the sun reflects off the granite surfaces.
The crypt beneath the monument preserves the remains of Emperor Pedro I and his two wives Maria Leopoldina of Austria and Amélie of Leuchtenberg in three separate sarcophagi. This chamber is accessible to visitors and serves as the final resting place for the imperial family, brought back to Brazil after the proclamation of the republic.
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