Campos Novos

Campos Novos is a Brazilian municipality located in the western part of the state of Santa Catarina, in the Southern Region of Brazil. It belongs to the Chapecó Intermediate Geographic Region and the Joaçaba-Herval d'Oeste Immediate Geographic Region, situated approximately 370 km west of the state capital. The municipality covers an area of about 1,717 km2 (663 sq mi), with an estimated population of 36,932 inhabitants in 2022, making it the 41st most populous municipality in the state. The region was first explored in the 18th century, initially inhabited solely by the Kaingang indigenous people. Established in 1881, Campos Novos experienced significant population growth in the early 20th century due to the arrival of immigrants seeking employment and refugees from the Contestado War. The municipality's agricultural potential was revealed during this period, propelling it to the forefront of crop production in Santa Catarina, with major crops including maize, soybean, bean, wheat, and barley, while also excelling in livestock and beekeeping. Campos Novos boasts several cultural and historical attractions, including the São João Batista Parish Church, the Coronel Gasparino Zorzi Cultural Center, and the Pilgrimage of Our Lady of Aparecida, which attracts an average of 70,000 devotees. The Campos Novos Hydroelectric Plant, constructed in 2006, generates a quarter of Santa Catarina's energy supply.