Happy TravellerWelcome to Juazeiro do Norte, a city located in the state of Ceará in northeastern Brazil. With a population of 276,264 (2020 official estimate) and covering 248 km², Juazeiro do Norte is the second largest city in the state and a reference in the Northeast region. The city is located 491 km south of the state capital Fortaleza in the semiarid sertão. Juazeiro do Norte is best known as the base of the charismatic priest and politician Padre Cícero (Cícero Romão Batista) (1844-1934). A pilgrimage in his honour takes place every November, attracting thousands of followers.
History:
Juazeiro do Norte was initially a district of the nearby city of Crato, until a young Padre Cícero Romão Batista decided to stay as a cleric in the village. Padre Cícero was then responsible for the independence and emancipation of the city. Because of the so-called milagre de Juazeiro (miracle in Juazeiro, when Padre Cícero gave the sacred host to the religious sister Maria de Araújo, the host became blood), the priest was associated with mystical characteristics and began to be venerated by the people as a saint. Today the city is a reference in the Northeast region thanks to the priest.
Attractions:
Juazeiro do Norte is a city full of history and culture. One of the main attractions is the Sanctuary of Father Cícero, where the priest’s tomb is located. The sanctuary is a place of pilgrimage and attracts thousands of visitors every year. Another important attraction is the Memorial Padre Cícero, which tells the story of the priest’s life and his influence on the city. The city also has a vibrant handicraft market, where visitors can find a variety of handmade products such as lace, embroidery, and ceramics.
Music Events:
Juazeiro do Norte is also known for its music events. In 2013, during the worst drought in 60 years in the Brazilian Wilderness (Sertão), a Christian music band Diante do Trono recorded its sixteenth work in Juazeiro do Norte, Tu Reinas album was recorded at Park Events Padre Cicero brought together approximately 50,000 people who came from all parts of Brazil, was the largest event in Juazeiro do Norte and across the Sertão region.
Transportation:
The city is served by Orlando Bezerra de Menezes Airport, which has daily flights to major cities in Brazil. Juazeiro do Norte is also connected to the nearby city of Crato by a commuter rail line called the Cariri Metro that opened in 2009–2010.
In conclusion, Juazeiro do Norte is a city full of history, culture, and spirituality. Whether you are a pilgrim or a tourist, this city has something to offer for everyone. Come and experience the magic of Juazeiro do Norte for yourself!
