Tiradentes Square (Praca Tiradentes)

Arguably the most important square in Curitiba, Praca Tiradentes is home to many of the city’s well-known sites, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and Basilica Minor of Our Lady of Light. Among the trees and statues in the square, visitors can walk over a glass-protected piece of the square’s original pavement, constructed in the first half of the 19th century. Thanks to the special lighting within the glass flooring, the spot is especially beautiful come nightfall.
The Cross of Christ and a historic monolith can also be found in the center of Praca Tiradentes.  The former was a symbol of the Military Order of the Christ, instituted by King Denis of Portugal in the 14th century, and represented the legal power of Portugal over the land and the settlement of Curitiba in 1693. According to legend the spot also marks the place where Indigenous Chief Tindiquera of the Tingui Tribe once chose to settle his people.

Practical Info

The square is located in the center of Curitiba and is within walking distance of several other tourist attractions, including the historic center and Palace of Liberty Cultural Center. The square is free and open to visitors 24 hours a day, although there are no public restrooms or drinking fountains. The area serves as the starting point for the tourist bus Linha Turismo and is easily accessible by several main bus lines that criss-cross the city.