Itu is famously known as the 'City of Exaggerations' because comedian Simplício claimed everything in his hometown was massive.
The city was a crucial epicenter for the Convention of Itu in 1873, which marked the founding of the Republican Party of São Paulo.
The local Church of Our Lady of Candelaria features paintings by Father Jesuíno do Monte Carmelo, an important 18th-century Afro-Brazilian artist.
The historical center features the 'Orelhão' (a giant public telephone), one of the most recognizable examples of the town's oversized theme.
During the 19th century, Itu was one of the wealthiest cities in the province of São Paulo due to its intensive sugar and coffee production.
The Historical Center of Itu is defined by its well-preserved 19th-century colonial architecture, reflecting the wealth of the coffee-baron era. At the heart of the district sits the Praça Padre Miguel, widely known as the Matrix Square. The area is famous throughout Brazil for the 'exaggeration' theme, a local cultural quirk originating from comedian Simplício. Visitors will find oversized street furniture and props scattered throughout the center to commemorate this legacy. The district hosts significant religious sites, including the Church of Our Lady of Candelaria, noted for its ornate interior and gold-leaf details. Cobblestone streets and narrow lanes characterize the urban layout, which remains largely faithful to its original layout from the 1600s. The region is historically significant as a former seat of power for the republican movement in São Paulo.
Standing next to the giant public telephone (Orelhão) in the main plaza.
Wear comfortable, flat-soled footwear as the historic streets are paved with traditional uneven stones.
Visit the local tourist information kiosk in the main square to pick up a map of the oversized monuments.
Check the local municipal calendar, as the center frequently hosts craft fairs and cultural festivals on weekends.
Do not mistake the modern commercial outskirts for the historical core; stay within the walking distance of the central plaza.
Modest clothing is encouraged when entering the historic churches; avoid swimwear or excessively casual attire.
