Complete Article about the 'Quilombo Cafundá Astrogilda' Bloc
In the context of Brazilian Carnival, the 'Quilombo Cafundá Astrogilda' bloc is one of the most emblematic in the North Zone of Rio de Janeiro, especially known for its rich history, Afro-Brazilian culture, and inherent traditions. Although the bloc is not a traditional street parade, its cultural and musical influence is significant, especially for the quilombola community.
1. Complete History of the Bloc
The Quilombo Cafundá Astrogilda is a quilombola community located in Vargem Grande, in the North Zone of Rio de Janeiro. The community was founded more than two centuries ago, but was officially recognized as a quilombo in 2014 by the Palmares Cultural Foundation[1][4].
The history of the quilombo is closely linked to the figure of Astrogilda Ferreira dos Santos, matriarch of the Santos Mesquita family. She and her husband, Celso dos Santos Mesquita, maintained a small Umbanda center in the 1920s, which was an important place for the community. The Santos Mesquita family is fundamental to the history and identity of the quilombo, and their struggle to rescue Afro-Brazilian identity and culture is continuous[2][4].
2. Founders and Important Figures
The foundation of the bloc is intrinsically linked to the quilombola community and its traditions. The matriarch Astrogilda Ferreira dos Santos and her husband Celso dos Santos Mesquita are central figures in the history of the quilombo. Other important figures include Astrogilda's daughter, Natalina Mesquita, and her granddaughter Maria Lúcia Mesquita Martins, who founded the quilombo school to preserve quilombola culture and identity[2][4].
3. Musical Identity
The characteristic musical style of Quilombo Cafundá Astrogilda is influenced by Afro-Brazilian culture and the music of the Umbanda terreiro. Although there is no specific information about traditional repertoire or striking songs, the bloc is known for its musical celebrations that include rituals and religious ceremonies, such as Astrogilda's prayers and Celso Mesquita's healing "garrafadas"[1][4].
4. Traditions and Rituals
The traditions of Quilombo Cafundá Astrogilda are rich and diverse. One of the most important rituals is the construction of the eco-museum and the spiritual terreiro, which includes an altar and pictures of saints. In addition, the Mesquita family preserves local knowledge in botany and homeopathy, such as Celso Mesquita's healing "garrafadas". The most famous drink produced is parangolé, created by Pingo to honor his friend Hélio Oiticica[1][4].
5. Territory and Belonging
The neighborhood of origin of Quilombo Cafundá Astrogilda is Vargem Grande, in the North Zone of Rio de Janeiro. The territory is part of the Pedra Branca State Park (PEPB), declared in 1974 with an extension of 12,491.72 hectares[1][4]. The rehearsal and parade locations of the bloc are mainly within the quilombo's own territory.
6. Evolution and Historical Milestones
The evolution of Quilombo Cafundá Astrogilda is marked by significant events such as the certification of the quilombo in 2014 and the inauguration of the museum in 2015. The quilombo school, founded in 2018, is another important milestone for the community, offering school reinforcement, crafts and sports classes[2][4]. Although there is no information on specific awards, the cultural influence of the bloc is recognized by the local community.
7. Cultural Impact
The Quilombo Cafundá Astrogilda