Joinville

Joinville was officially founded on March 9, 1851, when settlers from Germany, Switzerland, and Norway arrived in the region. The settlement was sponsored by the Sociedade Colonizadora de 1849, which sought to establish a German colony in southern Brazil. Joinville quickly grew into an important cultural and economic center in the state of Santa Catarina due to its fertile land and strategic location.

On March 13, 1972, Joinville was officially elevated from a town to a city. This change came as a result of its rapid growth in population and industry throughout the 20th century. Joinville became recognized as one of the major industrial hubs in southern Brazil, home to many factories and businesses, contributing significantly to the economy of the state of Santa Catarina.

The Bolshoi Theater School was inaugurated in Joinville on January 15, 1983, marking a significant cultural milestone for the city. It was the first branch of the Bolshoi Theater School outside of Russia, solidifying Joinville's reputation as a center of cultural excellence and education in ballet. The school offers extensive dance training and has become a cultural icon and tourist attraction.

The Joinville Dance Festival, the largest dance festival in the world, was first held on July 17, 1999. The event attracts dancers, companies, and spectators from all over the globe, featuring competitions, workshops, and performances in a variety of dance styles. It has grown to become a major cultural event in Brazil, bringing international attention and visitors to the city.

The construction of Joinville Arena, a multi-purpose stadium in the city, was completed on May 25, 2008. This stadium has hosted numerous sports events, concerts, and cultural gatherings. It has a seating capacity of over 22,000 and serves as the home ground of Joinville Esporte Clube. The arena is a modern facility that symbolizes the city's dedication to sports and entertainment.

Garten Shopping opened its doors to the public on October 15, 2011, becoming one of the largest and most modern shopping centers in Joinville. The mall features a wide array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, providing a comprehensive urban shopping experience. It has become a central part of the city's retail landscape, attracting consumers from throughout the region.

The Joinville Technological Park was established on August 28, 2015, aiming to foster innovation and entrepreneurship within the city. It serves as a hub for technology-based companies and startups, providing shared spaces, resources, and networking opportunities. The park has boosted the local economy and positioned Joinville as a significant player in the tech industry in Brazil.

The new terminal of Lauro Carneiro de Loyola Airport was inaugurated on April 30, 2017, increasing its capacity to handle more passengers and flights. The expansion was part of a major infrastructure project to improve transportation in and out of Joinville. This upgrade was crucial for accommodating the growing demand for air travel in the region and enhancing connectivity with other major cities.

On October 10, 2019, Joinville hosted the World Congress of Ballet Schools, an event that gathered representatives from ballet schools worldwide. This congress featured workshops, lectures, and performances, enhancing the city's reputation as a cultural and educational hub for ballet. The event reinforced Joinville's status as a leader in the global dance community.

The renovated National Museum of Immigration and Colonization reopened its doors to the public on May 21, 2023. The museum, which showcases the history of immigration and colonization in Brazil, is a key cultural institution in Joinville. The reopening featured new exhibits and interactive experiences, attracting history enthusiasts and tourists to the city, and contributing to the cultural identity of Joinville.