Nestled in Curitiba's Centro neighborhood, Praca Tiradentes is historically important to the city. Praca Tiradentes is regarded as the heart of Curitiba as this is the point that formed the core of the city, when it was founded in 1693. Legend has it that, the tribal leader of the Tinguis tribe, the original natives of this place, relinquished his authority to the Portuguese king at this square. The Catedral Basílica Menor Nossa Senhora da Luz, established in 1893, is the highlight of this square.
Established in 1996, Memoriale Arabe (Arab Memorial), in Curitiba's Centro neighborhood, is a beautiful dedication to the Middle-Eastern culture in the city. The red structure features a distinctive architecture, typical of the Moorish style. Surrounded by a pool of water, the cube-shaped building features stained glass windows, vault, arches, columns and domes. A library, art gallery and a coffee shop is located within the building. Art works by Arab artists can be perused here, or publications by Arab authors can be read.
Curitiba is full of wonderful structures and buildings. Torre Panorâmica de Curitiba is one such structure that helps get a better view of most of these buildings, all together! Established in 1991, the tower, whose name literally translates to Panoramic Tower of Curitiba, provides a fantastic, 360 degree view of the city. Towering up to 109.5 meters (359.25 feet), the magnificent structure is a must-visit. Open all week except Mondays, from 10a to 7p, Torre Panorâmica de Curitiba also features a tourist center and a telephone museum.
Nestled in Curitiba's Água Verde neighborhood, the Praça do Japão (Japan Square) is a dedication to the Japanese nationals who have been residing in the city since the turn of the 20th Century. The square features a koi pond opposite which stands a beautiful pagoda-styled structure that houses a library with a vast collection of Japanese publications. 30 cherry blossom trees dot the expanse of this park, and when they are in full bloom, this park is a picturesque blend of pink and green. Established in 1962, Praça do Japão is also home to a tea house and cultural center.
Standing tall in the center of Pedro Gasparello square, in Curitiba's Seminário neighborhood, Fonte de Jerusalem is a beautiful city monument, erected in 1995 commemorating three thousand years of establishment of Jerusalem. Designed by Fernando Canalli and Lys A. Buzzi, Fonte de Jerusalem is a 14.5 meters (47.57 feet) tall red concrete structure, with three bronze angels perched atop it. The angels represent the religions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam that co-exist peacefully in Jerusalem.