The Independence Site in Ipiranga: the vicissitudes of a historic place

ABSTRACT This work consists of a historical reconstruction essay of the site through which D. Pedro I passed on September 7, 1822. Besides investigating the path he treaded, this essay also approaches the highlighted points on the Ipiranga site, considering the various reforms they have gone through over time. A critical review of the numerous attempts to demarcate the place where Brazil’s independence took place evinced a series of mistakes over time and considerable confusion in the explanations. In an attempt to develop a linear narrative and clarify obscure or confounding points, this study relies on historical iconography: paintings, photos, and maps - which were superimposed on current maps to determine the points of interest with the aid of digital mapping programs. Throughout the text, a series of considerations are made about the purpose and the meaning of determining this location, with a greater or lesser precision.