Itaparica Island, Island at Todos os Santos Bay, Brazil
Itaparica is an island in Todos os Santos Bay along the coast of Bahia state, positioned across the water from Salvador. It features about 40 kilometers of beaches backed by fishing villages, small towns, and rural areas inland.
European explorers first reached the island in 1501 and encountered Tupinambá communities living there. Over the following centuries, shipyards, mills, and other industries developed across the island, shaping its economic life.
The name comes from Tupinambá language, reflecting the indigenous communities who lived here before European arrival. Traditional fishing villages scattered across the island still carry this heritage in their daily practices and local crafts.
Ferries depart regularly from Salvador to reach the island, with separate terminals for foot passengers and vehicles. The journey is straightforward and reliable, making it easy for visitors to plan their arrival based on their schedule and needs.
An Ingá-Açu plantation on the island hosted one of Brazil's first steam engines, installed around 1813. This early industrial technology arrived at a time when most of the region remained focused on agriculture and traditional crafts.
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