Bica da Carioca

Built in 1840 by the City Council, the “Bica da Carioca” was for more than a century the main source of water for local residents. In addition to meeting daily needs, this place became a lively meeting point and a true gem of socialization, where the water pipes were filled and distributed throughout the city in carts pulled by donkeys or horses.

Located in the charming Historic Center of São José, at the back and left of the Mother Church, “Bica da Carioca” is surrounded by a picturesque shaded square. Its source emerges from a lush area, full of dense vegetation. The land is walled at the back, where a water reservoir was built. The emblematic roof in the form of a prism, crowned by a rounded capital, attracts the attention of visitors. Right in front, protected by a roof, is a niche accompanied by a bench, a place where people used to quench their thirst with clean, fresh water.

In 1940, “Bica da Carioca” underwent renovations that expanded the area for use by washerwomen, with the construction of a tank equipped with 14 washers supplied with abundant running water. In February 2018, a revitalization and cleaning work, financed by the Fund for the Reconstitution of Damaged Property (FRBL), gave this historic treasure a new shine. During the revitalization, improvements were added, such as a wooden deck, a sign indicating the site and adequate lighting, further highlighting the importance of this unique place.

The “Bica da Carioca” is one of the rarest historical legacies in the state, with similar ones found only in São Francisco do Sul and Laguna. Spouts, cariocas, fountains and fountains are true works of public art that played a crucial role in the colonies, parishes and towns, representing historical symbols that ensured the survival of these cities. The term “carioca” became popular in Brazil, referring to the Tupi-Guarani expression “kara'iwa”, which means “white house”. In addition, scholars also use this term to refer to indigenous villages and tribes, and even as an affectionate nickname for the inhabitants or natives of the municipality of Rio de Janeiro.

Tip: Make the most of your visit to discover the Mother Church, less than 100 meters away from Bica da Carioca, in addition to Theatro Adolpho Mello and the Gilberto Gerlach Museum, both around the main church square.

Distance from Florianopolis: 8.4 km