Top 10 History Museums in State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Reviewed By Eulenspeegel - San Antonio de Pereira, Colombia

Parque Aldeia do Imigrante is a tribute to the brave, perseverant German immigrants who settled in this faraway land almost 200 years ago. The park not only keeps the German spirit alive, but serves as an encapsulated sample of German culture in Brazil. The entrance to the park fronts on Hwy RS-235 in the town of Nova Petropolis. The park is an easy 1 1/2 - 2 hour ride from Porto Alegre. My wife and I toured the park towards the end of the day. Unfortunately, our time was compressed, and we were not able to see all that this wonderful park has to offer. Parque Aldeia is perfect blend of nature, culture and history. Upon entering, we followed the sound of a live traditional German band playing under the shelter of an outdoor pavillion and outdoor cafe. Various German Brazilian couples were out on the dance floor enjoying themselves. As much as we would have enjoyed spending time with this lively crowd, we pressed on to see as much of the park as we could before it closed. Further on the trail, my wife and I descended to an idyllic lake with swan-shaped pedal boats. We continued up a trail to the old German village... which is comprised of various buildings "borrowed" from various small towns throughout the "Romantic Route."... including a church, school, bank and various other structures. I was surprised to see a model of the famous Wartburg (where Luther translated the Bible into German). My only regret is that we did not have time to enjoy all that Parque Aldeia has to offer. But, we are coming back soon to spend a couple of weeks in the Nova Petropolis area. A picnic at the park is on our agenda. The park is operated and maintained by the muncipal government. Entrance is a modest 18 Reales. One word of warning, though. Make sure you keep an eye on your metered parking, The attendants are quick on the draw. My wife and I parked about a block away from the park, but the municipal parking fee machine was another 100 yards away. We purchased time, but when we returned with our paid ticket, a notice of violation was stuck under the wiper. I managed to convince the young man that I had no intention of being a scofflaw and showed him my paid parking ticket.