African-Brazilian religions ritual areas in Guarulhos

Abstract

Although the local African religions are barely known, some data reveal their importance in the city of Guarulhos when comparing with other cities in the State of São Paulo. This paper triggers a discussion about this importance by doing a first reading of the representativeness of religious ritual areas, Candomblé Temples, called “terreiros,” in the city, and proposing further investigation of the matter in order to foster historical and cultural awareness. This awareness, when connected to religion, allows a better understanding of these religions by the public and the development of research and heritage preservation policies.