Ilhabela

Ilhabela was discovered by Europeans on February 1, 1532, when a Portuguese expedition led by Martim Afonso de Sousa arrived on the island during his expedition along the Brazilian coast. The island was noted for its natural harbor and its dense tropical rainforest, which made it a place of strategic interest during the early years of European exploration and colonization in South America.

Ilhabela was originally founded as Vila Bela da Princesa on November 16, 1803, by Major Antonio Pinto da Silva e Sousa, during a time of colonial expansion in Brazil. It was established as a strategic location along the coast with fertile lands and a safe harbor for ships. This foundation laid down the historical significance and beginnings of what would later become known as Ilhabela.

The Chapel of Nossa Senhora Aparecida was consecrated on May 1, 1939, and sits on the scenic Curral Beach in Ilhabela. This charming chapel is one of the iconic landmarks on the island, famous not only for its religious significance but also as a picturesque spot for visitors. The chapel adds cultural and historical value to the landscape of Ilhabela, serving as a reminder of its rich spiritual heritage.

During World War II, on July 8, 1942, the Brazilian freighter SS Comandante Lyra was attacked by the German submarine U-590 near Ilhabela. This event marked Brazil's increased involvement in World War II, as it was a pivotal point in leading Brazil to officially join the Allies in the war against the Axis powers. The attack highlighted the strategic importance of the coast of Brazil during the war.

On September 3, 1965, Ilhabela, previously a district within the municipality of São Sebastião, became an independent municipality in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. This change allowed Ilhabela to have its own local government and administration, which helped focus on the development and preservation of its natural beauty and rich biodiversity.

Ilhabela State Park was established on July 20, 1977, covering approximately 27,025 hectares of both land and marine environments. This park is crucial in preserving the unique ecosystem of Ilhabela, including its Atlantic rainforest, diverse array of flora and fauna, and protecting the area from overdevelopment. The park is a haven for biodiversity and a significant natural heritage site in Brazil.

On June 30, 1995, the prestigious Ilhabela Sailing Week was held at the Ilhabela Yacht Club for the first time. This marked the beginning of what would become one of the most important sailing events in Brazil, attracting yachtsmen from all over the world. The event has helped to cement Ilhabela's reputation as a prime destination for water sports and has significantly contributed to the local tourism economy.

On September 15, 2009, the Ilhabela Municipal Educational Complex was inaugurated, dedicated to providing enhanced educational opportunities for children on the island. This complex was designed to promote a high standard of education and offer extensive resources to foster learning in the community. The establishment of this facility has significantly impacted the local education system, aiming to empower the youth of Ilhabela with knowledge and skills for a brighter future.

On April 22, 2010, an important environmental milestone was achieved when a large section of the coastal waters near Ilhabela was designated as a protected area for the conservation of whales. This protection aims to preserve whale species that are vital to the biodiversity of the region, safeguarding their natural habitat from the impacts of fishing and maritime traffic, and boosting eco-tourism and scientific research around these magnificent marine mammals.

The new ferry terminal at Ilhabela, which connects the island to the mainland at São Sebastião, was inaugurated on September 27, 2015. This improvement in infrastructure has significantly enhanced access to the island, allowing for smoother and more efficient transportation for both residents and tourists. The modernization of the terminal reflects the growing popularity of Ilhabela as a tourist destination and its importance in boosting the local economy.