Papanduva offers a range of reasons to visit: Byzantine church architecture, Ukrainian handicrafts, cuisine influenced by Ukrainian and Polish cultures, and opportunities to observe nature. Depending on your interests, you can focus on culture, food or scenery. These themes also differ geographically, offering different perspectives on the municipality.

Churches with Different Architectural Features

At the administrative centre of Papanduva stands Igreja Ucraniana Santo Antônio. Built in the Byzantine style, it has metal domes. The municipality is also home to the Catholic Igreja Matriz São Sebastião, which has modern architecture. The two churches therefore make a clear contrast: Byzantine construction and domes define Santo Antônio, while São Sebastião is distinguished by its modern architecture.

Another Byzantine-style church is located in Rio Pratinha, 28 km from the administrative centre. The same architectural style can thus be seen in two different locations. Anyone interested in religious architecture can compare the two Byzantine churches with the modern design of Igreja Matriz. The church’s location in Rio Pratinha also takes you beyond the administrative centre.

Ukrainian Handicrafts

Ukrainian handicrafts in Papanduva include Pêssanka, the hand-painting of eggs, and icon paintings of sacred figures made with natural pigments. Each takes a different approach: Pêssanka focuses on the painted egg, while the icon paintings feature sacred subjects and natural pigments. This offers a cultural perspective distinct from that of the churches, bringing crafts and visual art alongside construction and architecture. For travellers interested in Ukrainian art forms, this combination of painting and imagery is a theme in its own right.

Dishes and Culinary Influences

The cuisine of the municipality of Papanduva includes Churrasco, Feijoada and Carreteiro. Ukrainian and Polish cultures also influence dishes such as Haluske, Pirogue and beet soup (borcht). The cuisine thus brings together a range of culinary influences rather than reflecting just one culture. If food culture is a consideration when choosing a destination, this mix offers another perspective on Papanduva alongside its architecture and handicrafts.

Nature Watching at Serra do Pinheiro Seco

Serra do Pinheiro Seco lies on the border between Monte Castelo and Papanduva and is a destination for nature watching. It offers a scenic focus alongside the cultural themes: here, the emphasis is on observing nature, rather than church architecture or handicrafts. Its border location differs from that of Igreja Ucraniana Santo Antônio in the administrative centre and the other Byzantine-style church in Rio Pratinha, 28 km from the administrative centre. When planning your trip, you can distinguish both between the cultural and scenic highlights and between their respective locations.

Discover more destinations: Barra Velha, Pereque, Alfredo Wagner, São Joaquim, Garuva, Ituporanga, Canoinhas, Pingador

For the overview of the wider region: Santa Catarina.