Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Gaúcho Life
The
gaúcho
culture developed in colonial times in
what is now northeastern Argentina, Uruguay, and
Southern Brazil. In Rio Grande do Sul, the natives of
the state - whether urban or rural, and regardless of
their ethnic origin - are called
gaúchos
. Traditionally,
gaúchos
were semi-nomadic people who lived by
hunting wild cattle. With the introduction of fencing
and border agreements, they were reduced to being
ranch hands. Nonetheless, their legacy continues to
be strongly visible in the distinct
gaúcho
culture of
today. In the interior of the state, in the grasslands
of both the pampas and
serra
, the heirs of the
traditional
gaúcho
employ their skills as tough
horsemen on cattle
estancias
(ranches).
Old
estancia
Sobrado, a traditional
ranch, Rio Grande do Sul
CLOTHING
Traditional
gaúcho
attire remains commonplace among
the rural population of the pampas and highlands of
Southern Brazil. On special occasions, city dwellers
also don
gaúcho
clothing, an outward sign of the
distinctiveness of Rio Grande do Sul society.
Gaúcho dress
is worn with
immense pride. “Gaúcho pants”
(
bombachas
), a linen shirt,
kerchief, poncho, rimmed
felt-hat, and pleated boots
with fancy spurs are
essential components
of traditional
gaúcho
clothing.
A silver knife
,
delicately carved,
is an important
gaúcho
tool,
handy weapon,
and eating
implement.
CENTRO DE TRADIÇÕES GAÚCHAS
The worldwide Brazilian-
gaúcho
organization, Centro de Tradições Gaúchas,
(Center for Gaúcho Traditions) was founded
by eight Porto Alegre students in 1948, to
preserve and promote
gaúcho
traditions.
Today, it has more than 4,500 affiliate clubs
that stage rodeos,
gaúcho
dances, parades,
barbecues, and other social events. A
centro
can now be found wherever
gaúchos
live,
both within Rio Grande do Sul and as far
afield as Bolivia, Japan, and Portugal. The
centros
are perhaps the most convenient
way for an outsider to observe
gaúcho
traditions, which are emerging as a part of popular culture even in non-
gaúcho
areas.
Local tourist offices and hotels will be able to provide information on upcoming events.
Parade celebrating
gaúcho
culture in Argentina
