“Éden Fluminense:” from a reforestation area on the Tijuca massif to a Europeanized public space in Rio de Janeiro in the latter half of the nineteenth century

In the latter half of the nineteenth century, the Tijuca massif in Rio de Janeiro underwent a significant transformation from a reforestation area to a Europeanized public space, reflecting broader shifts in the social uses of forests. This study reveals how planted forests evolved into spaces for recreation and contemplation while retaining their economic value, embodying ideals of nationalism and modernity. The research leverages primary sources from Brazilian archives, including the Hemeroteca Digital collection, to trace this resignification process. By analyzing these historical documents, the authors demonstrate how Eurocentric notions of nature influenced the perception and utilization of green spaces in Rio de Janeiro, contributing to a deeper understanding of urban landscape development during this period.

Sales, G. P. d. S., Brito, M. R. d., & Guedes-Bruni, R. R. (2024). “Éden Fluminense:” from a reforestation area on the Tijuca massif to a Europeanized public space in Rio de Janeiro in the latter half of the nineteenth century. História, Ciências, Saúde-Manguinhos, 31. https://doi.org/10.1590/s0104-59702024000100039en