Morro de São Paulo - What's in a Name?
- Brazil, Kenya
- January 2, 2025
Have you ever thought about the names of places and what they mean? In some countries, the names we know today weren’t chosen by the indigenous people who lived there.
For instance, in Kenya, the Kikuyu people called their snow-capped mountain Kĩrĩnyaga, meaning “the place of whiteness.” When the British arrived, they mispronounced it as Kenya, and the name stuck.
In Brazil, the story is similar. The country’s name comes from pau-brasil, a tree that was valued by the Portuguese for its red dye and quality. Over time, this word became the identity of the entire country.
A Connection to Tinharé
This shift in naming also happened in smaller, meaningful places. In Bahia- Brazil, there’s a beautiful spot called Morro de São Paulo, which is a villa situated on an island called Tinharé. Long before the Portuguese arrived in the early 1500s, the indigenous Tupi community had named it Tinharé, meaning “that which advances in the water.” The name reflected how they perceived and connected to the land.
Discovering Morro de São Paulo
Once you’re in Morro de São Paulo, the villa offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. Popular beaches include:
- Primeira Praia (First Beach): Perfect for adventure and water sports.
- Segunda Praia (Second Beach): Known for its lively energy and social atmosphere.
- Terceira Praia (Third Beach): A peaceful spot to unwind and recharge.
- Quarta Praia (Fourth Beach): Home to natural pools and tranquility.
One highlight is taking a tour to visit the surrounding islands. During the tour, you can also visit Cairu, a charming town and the second-oldest city in Brazil, founded in 1531. Walking through its historic streets or riding a quad-bike chariot is a memorable experience that blends history with fun.
Reflecting on What’s Been Lost
While these places are absolutely beautiful, it’s also important to think about the deeper history behind them. Tinharé wasn’t just a place, it was home to people with their own culture, stories, and ways of life. When the Portuguese arrived, they changed not just the names but the whole trajectory of the land. The same applies to Kenya when the British arrived.
To honour the indigenous people who lived and continue to live in these places, we can start by:
– educating ourselves about their history.
– taking the time to learn the original names and cultures tied to the land before visiting.
– Support local businesses by choosing tours, shops, and accommodations run by local communities.
– Share what we learn with others, using our platforms to tell the stories of these places and the people who have called them home for generations.
Finally, we can all respect the land itself by treating it with care, understanding that it’s not just a tourist destination but a living piece of history. Safe travels!
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ABOUT US
Priscilla
Traveler
Hey traveler, welcome to our blog! I’m excited to take you on a journey through Kenya and Brazil, all from our African perspective. Two vibrant countries, rich in culture, blessed with breath-taking landscapes, and home to some of the most welcoming people. I hope you find inspiration and joy in every step of this adventure.
