Explore Aurora through three distinct themes: the religious history surrounding Mártir Francisca, the town’s railway history, and the landscape along the Rio Salgado and at Minas do Coxá. You can then plan your trip around these interests.

Religious History and Places of Remembrance

The life story of Mártir Francisca is connected with two places in Aurora. She was born on February 21, 1941, at Sítio Creoulas, and died on February 9, 1958, at 2 p.m. at Sítio Mororó. On the 9th day of each month, believers go to the small chapel of Mártir Francisca to pray, give thanks, and ask for protection.

In December 1994, the penitents gathered at Sítio Mororó for prayers and acts of penance; afterward, they decided to build the Igrejinha da Mártir Francisca there. The monthly devotion and this decision represent different periods in Aurora’s religious history.

Railway Station, Monument and Building History

Aurora’s railway station was inaugurated in 1920. In the history of the railway, Estação de Aurora is part of the main line, also known as the Southern Line, of the Rede de Viação Cearense. Estação Ferroviária de Aurora was the scene of the attack in which Colonel Isaias Arruda was killed.

The Monumento de Frei Caneca commemorates the 190th anniversary of his passage through the area of Aurora on his way to Crato. The number 190 refers to the anniversary of his passage; 1920, by contrast, is the year the railway station was inaugurated. The monument was built by the local Department of Culture with support from the municipal administration. Another landmark in local history is the Casarão da Cultura in Aurora, built in 1831.

River Landscapes and Minas do Coxá

Along the Rio Salgado, two nature destinations offer different experiences. Massalina do Rio Salgado is a geological formation on the riverbank, with rock formations through which the river water flows. Poço do Meio is a natural attraction along the stretch of river within the area of Aurora; its geological formation is suitable for swimming and picnicking. If you plan to swim or picnic there, check the conditions before your visit. This lets you distinguish between the interplay of rocks and flowing water at Massalina and the activities available at Poço do Meio.

At Minas do Coxá, a steep ridge protects the area and is surrounded by dense Caatinga. Mineral deposits remain hidden beneath the surface. For more than a century, the history of Minas do Coxá has shaped sertanejo tales and stories in the chronicles of Cariri and the Northeast. The landscape and storytelling tradition thus go hand in hand at Minas do Coxá.

Discover more destinations: Aurora, Pedra Branca, São Gonçalo do Amarante, Mauriti, Solonópole, Amontada, Aracoiaba, Caucaia.

For the main travel overview: Ceará.