Campinas is a major city in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, with around 1.19 million people. The settlement developed during the 18th century along a route used by travellers and traders heading towards the gold-mining regions of Goiás and was formally established as a parish in 1774. During the 19th century, Campinas became one of Brazil’s most important coffee-producing centres, and the wealth generated by plantations, railways and commerce transformed it into a major regional city. Today it is an important centre for technology, research, industry and higher education, particularly through the State University of Campinas, commonly known as Unicamp. Notable sights include the Metropolitan Cathedral, built largely from rammed earth, the historic railway station now used as the Estação Cultura, the Municipal Market and the Torre do Castelo. Parque Portugal, better known as Lagoa do Taquaral, is the city’s main recreational area, with a large lake, walking and cycling routes and cultural facilities. Campinas lies about 100 kilometres northwest of São Paulo and is one of the largest Brazilian cities that is not a state capital.

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