SantoAntônioHill

Not everyone knows this, but one of the most interesting places to watch the sunset in downtown Rio is from the vantage point of the Santo Antônio Architectural Complex, with its Baroque-style church and convent, located at the top of the small hillside that borders Largo da Carioca, between the street of the same name and Avenida Chile. Even fewer people know that, in the past, this hillside was part of a much larger hill, which bordered what are now Rua Evaristo da Veiga and Rua do Lavradio.

Image description: This is an old photograph of a city with several historic buildings. On the left side, we see a large building with classical architecture, possibly a theater or palace, with many windows and ornamental details. In the center, there is another building with domes and towers, also in a traditional architectural style. On the right, we see yet another building with domes and architectural details. In the background, there is a hill with several smaller structures and vegetation. The sky is overcast, giving the image a gray tone.

Occupied since the 17th century by Franciscans and by poor families who initially came to the site seeking the shelter of their charity, the Santo Antônio hill soon became one of Rio's first favelas.

Image description: This is an old black-and-white photograph. The image shows an urban scene with modest structures. On the left side, there is a wooden structure with balconies and stairs. In the center, a small brick building with an open door, where a person is standing inside. In front of this building, children and adults are standing, some holding objects. In the background, there are more wooden structures and vegetation.

Its demolition began in the 1920s, making way for the city's urban development. However, by the end of the 1950s, pressure for its total demolition increased, using projects such as the construction of República do Chile avenue as a pretext. The hill's "Bota-Abaixo" (Knock-Down) also served to supply material for the Parque do Flamengo.

Image description: This is an old black-and-white photograph of a house with a veranda. On the left, we see a brick wall with wooden structures leaning against it. In the center, there is a wooden building with a veranda decorated with geometric patterns. A person is standing on the veranda, looking at the camera. Below the veranda, there is an entrance with shop signs. On the right, we see a brick wall with an open window, from which laundry hangs. In front of the house, there is an area with objects and people.