Established in 1852, Alagoinhas is a municipality in the state of Bahia, Brazil, that serves as the ecclesiastical seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Alagoinhas.
The city is located at approximately 12°8′9″S 38°25′8″W. It operates within the America/Bahia time zone and uses Portuguese as its official language.
Overview
Alagoinhas is a city located in the Brazilian state of Bahia. Situated in the northeastern region of Brazil, the municipality serves as an important local administrative and cultural center within the state's extensive network of urban and rural communities. The city is positioned at geographic coordinates approximately 12°8′9″S and 38°25′8″W, placing it within the tropical zone of South America. These coordinates correspond to a latitude of roughly -12.1358 and a longitude of -38.4189, defining its specific location relative to the equator and the prime meridian.
As a municipality in Bahia, Alagoinhas operates under the standard administrative framework of Brazilian local government. The official language spoken throughout the city is Portuguese, reflecting the broader linguistic landscape of Brazil. The city falls within the America/Bahia time zone, which typically observes Brasília Time (BRT), aligning its daily schedule with the capital region and much of the eastern half of the country. This time zone designation ensures synchronization with regional economic and social activities across the state.
Historical and Administrative Background
The city was founded in 1852, establishing its roots in the mid-19th century. This founding date marks the beginning of Alagoinhas as a distinct settlement, evolving over more than a century and a half into the municipal entity it is today. The historical development of the city has been shaped by its location within Bahia, one of Brazil's most populous and historically significant states.
In 1974, Alagoinhas was designated as the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Alagoinhas. This ecclesiastical appointment highlights the city's role in the religious administration of the region. The establishment of the diocese indicates a level of demographic and social importance, as the Catholic Church typically selects cities with sufficient population and infrastructure to serve as centers for pastoral care and administrative oversight. The Diocese of Alagoinhas continues to function as a key religious institution for the local community and surrounding areas.
Did you know: Alagoinhas became a significant religious center in Bahia when it was made the seat of its own Roman Catholic Diocese in 1974, nearly a century after its founding in 1852.
The city's status as a municipal seat and diocesan center contributes to its identity within the state of Bahia. While specific details about its economic structure or population size are not provided in the current grounding, the administrative and religious roles define its primary functions in the regional context. The combination of its geographic position, historical founding, and ecclesiastical significance provides a foundational understanding of Alagoinhas as a city in northeastern Brazil.
Geography
Alagoinhas is situated within the state of Bahia in the northeastern region of Brazil. The city’s geographic position is defined by the coordinates 12°8′9″S 38°25′8″W. This location places Alagoinhas in the tropical zone, south of the equator and west of the prime meridian, consistent with the broader latitudinal spread of the Bahian interior and coastal transition zones. The specific coordinate values provided in the authoritative source establish the precise point of reference for the municipality, distinguishing it from neighboring localities within the first-level subdivision of Bahia.
The regional context of Alagoinhas is anchored in its administrative and ecclesiastical history within Bahia. While the city is geographically positioned at the specified coordinates, its significance in the regional landscape is also marked by its role as a diocesan seat. This ecclesiastical designation highlights the city's importance within the religious geography of the state, serving as a central point for the Catholic community in the surrounding area. The establishment of the diocese in 1974 reflects the growth and organizational structure of the church in the region during the mid-20th century.
As a city in Brazil, Alagoinhas operates under the national framework where Portuguese is the official language. The time zone for the municipality is America/Bahia, which aligns with the standard timekeeping for the state and much of the northeastern region of the country. This time zone designation ensures synchronization with other major urban centers in Bahia and facilitates administrative and commercial activities across the state. The coordinates 12°8′9″S 38°25′8″W provide a fixed geographic reference, but the city's identity is also shaped by its historical founding in 1852.
The geographic and administrative details of Alagoinhas are interconnected. The city's location in Bahia places it within a diverse state known for its varied landscapes, from coastal plains to inland plateaus. The specific coordinates indicate a position that is neither on the immediate coastline nor deep in the interior, suggesting a transitional geographic character. The establishment of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Alagoinhas in 1974 further underscores the city's role as a regional hub. This ecclesiastical status likely influences local infrastructure, community organization, and cultural practices, although the specific impacts are detailed in broader historical and sociological studies. The time zone America/Bahia and the official language of Portuguese are standard for the region, facilitating integration with the wider Brazilian national context.
In summary, Alagoinhas is a city in Bahia, Brazil, located at 12°8′9″S 38°25′8″W. It was founded in 1852 and became the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Alagoinhas in 1974. These facts provide a concise geographic and administrative profile of the municipality, grounded in the available authoritative sources. The coordinates, founding date, and diocesan status are key elements that define Alagoinhas within the state of Bahia and the country of Brazil.
History
Founding and Early Development
Alagoinhas was founded in 1852, establishing its presence within the administrative framework of the Brazilian state of Bahia. The city serves as a municipal entity in northeastern Brazil, situated at coordinates approximately 12°8′9″S 38°25′8″W. The founding date marks the formal establishment of the settlement, which evolved into a significant locality within the region. The geographic position of Alagoinhas places it within the broader coastal and inland transition zones typical of Bahia, though specific topographic details are defined by its precise latitudinal and longitudinal placement. The city operates under the time zone America/Bahia, aligning with the regional temporal standards of the state. Portuguese is the official language of the municipality, reflecting the national linguistic standard of Brazil.
Ecclesiastical Significance
This ecclesiastical appointment elevated the city's administrative and religious importance within the Catholic Church's structure in Bahia. The establishment of the diocese indicates a growth in the local Catholic population and the need for a dedicated regional hierarchy to oversee parishes and religious institutions in the area. The Diocese of Alagoinhas functions as a key religious jurisdiction, with the city serving as its central administrative hub. This status has likely influenced the urban development and cultural landscape of Alagoinhas, as diocesan seats often become focal points for religious festivals, pilgrimages, and community gatherings. The year 1974 remains a pivotal moment in the city's institutional history, marking its transition from a primarily municipal entity to a significant ecclesiastical center.
Did you know: Alagoinhas became a diocesan seat in 1974, nearly a century and a quarter after its initial founding in 1852.
What is Alagoinhas known for?
Alagoinhas holds a distinct position within the administrative and ecclesiastical landscape of the Brazilian state of Bahia. While it functions as a standard municipal entity within the federation, its significance is notably defined by its role in the regional structure of the Roman Catholic Church. The city serves as the official seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Alagoinhas, a designation that was formally established in 1974. This ecclesiastical status places Alagoinhas as a central hub for Catholic administration and religious life for the surrounding areas within the diocese's jurisdiction.
Ecclesiastical Significance
The establishment of the Diocese of Alagoinhas in 1974 marked a key development in the religious organization of the region. As the seat of this diocese, the city hosts the primary cathedral and administrative offices that oversee the parishes and religious communities within the diocesan boundaries. This role distinguishes Alagoinhas from other municipalities in Bahia that may not hold such a specific ecclesiastical title. The diocese operates under the broader hierarchy of the Catholic Church in Brazil, contributing to the spiritual and social fabric of the local population.
The designation of Alagoinhas as a diocesan seat reflects the historical growth and consolidation of the Catholic faith in the area. Since 1974, the diocese has played a role in the religious education, charity work, and community organization of the region. The presence of the diocese also influences the architectural and cultural landscape of the city, with the cathedral serving as a focal point for religious ceremonies and public gatherings. This ecclesiastical identity is a defining characteristic of Alagoinhas, setting it apart within the state of Bahia.
The city's status as the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Alagoinhas continues to be a central aspect of its identity. It remains an important center for Catholic worship and administration, reflecting the enduring influence of the Church in the region. The diocese, established in 1974, continues to serve the faithful in Alagoinhas and the surrounding areas, maintaining its role as a key religious institution in the state of Bahia.
Administration
Alagoinhas functions as a municipal entity within the federal structure of Brazil, specifically situated in the state of Bahia. As a city, it operates under the standard administrative framework applied to Brazilian municipalities, which are the primary subdivisions of states. The local governance of Alagoinhas is characterized by the typical tripartite division of powers found in Brazilian municipal administration, although specific details regarding the current composition of its executive and legislative branches are defined by local electoral outcomes and state statutes.
Ecclesiastical Administration
A significant aspect of Alagoinhas' administrative and institutional profile is its role within the Roman Catholic Church. This ecclesiastical status places Alagoinhas as a central point for religious administration in the region, overseeing the spiritual and organizational needs of the Catholic population within the diocesan boundaries. The establishment of the diocese in 1974 marks a key date in the city's institutional history, reflecting its growing importance in the state of Bahia during the mid-20th century.
Historical Context of Governance
The administrative history of Alagoinhas is rooted in its founding in 1852. Since its establishment, the city has evolved from a local settlement into a formal municipal entity with defined borders and governance structures. The transition from a founding community to a city with a dedicated diocese illustrates the gradual consolidation of administrative functions over time. The city's location at approximately 12°8′9″S 38°25′8″W places it within the geographic context of Bahia, influencing its regional administrative relationships and connectivity within the state.
The official language of administration and public life in Alagoinhas is Portuguese, consistent with the national standard for Brazil. This linguistic uniformity facilitates communication between local municipal authorities, state government bodies in Bahia, and the federal government in Brasília. The time zone observed in Alagoinhas is America/Bahia, which aligns with the broader temporal coordination of the state and the eastern portion of Brazil.
While specific details regarding the current mayor, city council composition, or detailed budgetary figures are not provided in the available sources, the structural framework of Alagoinhas' administration remains consistent with other municipalities in Bahia. The city's governance is subject to state laws and federal decrees, ensuring a degree of uniformity in administrative practices across the state. The presence of the Roman Catholic Diocese adds a layer of institutional complexity, as the diocese operates both within and alongside the civil administrative structures of the city.
The administrative boundaries of Alagoinhas define the jurisdiction of its local government, encompassing the urban center and surrounding rural areas. These boundaries are subject to periodic adjustments based on demographic changes and geographic considerations, although specific details regarding recent boundary modifications are not detailed in the current sources. The city's role as a diocesan seat enhances its administrative significance, as it serves as a hub for religious and civil activities within the region.
In summary, Alagoinhas is a city in Bahia, Brazil, with a well-defined administrative structure that includes civil governance and ecclesiastical oversight. Its founding in 1852 and the establishment of the Roman Catholic Diocese in 1974 are key historical milestones that have shaped its administrative identity. The city operates under the Portuguese language and the America/Bahia time zone, integrating seamlessly into the broader administrative framework of the state and the nation.
Demographics
The available demographic data for Alagoinhas is notably sparse within the provided sources. While the city is an established administrative unit within the state of Bahia, Brazil, specific population figures, growth rates, or detailed ethnic and socioeconomic compositions are not explicitly detailed in the current grounding information. Consequently, any attempt to provide precise census numbers or per-capita statistics would rely on external memorization rather than the verified source material. This section therefore focuses on the structural and historical context that frames the city's demographic development, acknowledging the limitations of the current dataset.
Administrative and Historical Context
Alagoinhas functions as a significant municipal entity in northeastern Brazil. Its status as a city was formally established in 1852, marking the beginning of its modern administrative history. This founding date provides a baseline for understanding the longevity of the settlement, which has persisted for nearly two centuries. The city is situated within the first-level subdivision of Bahia, a state known for its diverse geographic and cultural landscape. The official language of the municipality is Portuguese, consistent with the national standard, which facilitates communication and administrative cohesion with the broader Brazilian federation.
The demographic weight of Alagoinhas is further underscored by its ecclesiastical significance. This appointment suggests a level of population density and social organization sufficient to support a distinct diocesan structure, separate from neighboring parishes. The establishment of a diocese typically reflects a community large enough to sustain clergy, educational institutions, and religious infrastructure, indicating that Alagoinhas has maintained a stable and growing populace since the mid-20th century.
Geographic and Temporal Framework
This positioning places Alagoinhas in the tropical zone of South America, influencing the lifestyle and economic activities of its residents. These geographic and temporal markers help situate the city within the broader context of Brazilian urban centers, although they do not directly quantify the number of inhabitants.
Caveat: The specific population count, age distribution, and recent census data for Alagoinhas are not provided in the current source material. Readers seeking precise numerical demographics should consult the latest official Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) reports, as the available grounding focuses on administrative and historical milestones rather than statistical breakdowns.
In summary, while the exact number of residents in Alagoinhas is not specified in the available text, the city's historical founding in 1852 and its elevation to a diocesan seat in 1974 indicate a sustained and organized community. The lack of detailed demographic data in this specific source highlights the need for further statistical inquiry to fully understand the population trends and composition of this Bahian municipality. The city remains a defined geographic and administrative point within Brazil, characterized by its Portuguese-speaking population and its role in the regional Catholic church structure.
Transport
Alagoinhas is situated within the state of Bahia in Brazil, a region characterized by extensive road networks that connect its numerous municipalities. The city's position in the northeastern part of the country places it within a transport corridor that links the coastal areas with the interior of Bahia. While specific highway designations and distances to neighboring cities are not detailed in the available sources, the general infrastructure of Bahia relies heavily on paved roads to facilitate the movement of goods and passengers between urban centers.
The city's transport connectivity is influenced by its administrative and historical development. Founded in 1852, Alagoinhas has grown into a significant local hub, which is further emphasized by its status as the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Alagoinhas, a title it received in 1974. This ecclesiastical role often correlates with increased visitor traffic and the need for reliable access routes for both residents and travelers from surrounding parishes.
As a city in Brazil, Alagoinhas operates under the time zone America/Bahia, which is relevant for scheduling transport services and coordinating with other regions within the country. The official language of Portuguese is used in all transport signage, announcements, and documentation, ensuring clear communication for the majority of travelers. The city's coordinates, approximately 12°8′9″S 38°25′8″W, place it in a geographic context where road transport is the primary mode of connectivity, given the terrain and urban layout typical of the Bahian interior.
Travelers and residents in Alagoinhas rely on the regional road network to access larger cities and economic centers in Bahia. The lack of specific details on airports or railway stations in the current sources suggests that road transport remains the dominant form of mobility for the city. This is consistent with many municipalities in Brazil, where highways serve as the main arteries for both daily commutes and longer-distance travel. The city's transport infrastructure supports its role as a local administrative and religious center, facilitating the flow of people and goods within the broader Bahian network.
Frequently asked questions
When was Alagoinhas founded?
Alagoinhas was founded in 1852.
What is the significance of Alagoinhas in the Roman Catholic Church?
Where is Alagoinhas located?
What time zone does Alagoinhas observe?
Alagoinhas observes the America/Bahia time zone.
What is the official language of Alagoinhas?
The official language is Portuguese.