From Toninhas beach, the Island of Anchieta Prison can be seen, which was deactivated after a prisoner revolt in 1952. Schooners make the crossing to the island from Toninhas and other neighbouring beaches, taking day-trippers to what has now become an area of preservation – the State Park of Anchieta Island.

Apart from exploring trails, beaches and bays with excellent diving quality, the visitor has the chance to directly experience the history of the island by observing the prison buildings.

Designed by Ramos de Azevedo, the prison first opened it’s doors in 1907 as the Porto das Palmas Correctional Colony and transformed into a political prison between 1930 and 1933, when there was the first riot. It continued to serve as a prison for common prisoners until it was decommissioned by Jânio Quadros in 1955.

It was in June 1952 that the largest rebellion of the era occurred. Around 400 prisoners overpowered the guards, killed soldiers and employees and escaped. Many were recaptured, but the revolt led to the demise of the prison.

Nowadays the front part of the prison has been refurbished and houses the State Park’s administration, exhibition hall, auditorium, Tamar shop and toilets. The ancient cells, today in ruins, have restricted access and are subject to a recuperation project which will host cultural and educational activities.

Source: Revista Turismo