What is Capoeira?
Culture & Respect
Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines movements of attack and defense with music and expressive play, making it both fun to practice and deeply transformational. Physically, it strengthens the body, sharpens reflexes, and enhances spatial awareness. Acrobatic training further develops flexibility, balance, and overall body awareness. There is also an unpredictable (but respectful) nature of Capoeira that enhances cognitive engagement and is fun! In addition to exercise, it offers a joyful and safe space to grow physically, emotionally, and socially. Through learning movement, rhythm, and music, kids express themselves freely, build confidence, and develop important values such as cooperation, discipline, respect, and responsibility.
More than a sport...
Capoeira is life
History of Capoeira
Discover the rich and powerful history of Capoeira, from its origins in Brazil
to its global influence today.
Origins of Capoeira
* Born in the sugar plantations of Bahia - 16th century origins
* Practiced in secret for centuries - Disguised as dance and music
* Became legal in 1937 - Thanks to Mestre Bimba's efforts
* Recognized by UNESCO in 2014 - Intangible Cultural Heritage
* Blends martial arts, music & dance - Unique holistic art form
* Symbol of resistance & freedom - Cultural preservation tool
Historical depiction of Afro-Brazilian cultural
practices in colonial Brazil
Salvador da Bahia, Brazil.
Capoeira was developed in Brazil by the enslaved African people, but its exact origins remain a mystery. We know it is rooted in the African presence in Brazil, but we cannot say for certain if Capoeira was brought directly from Africa or if it developed entirely on Brazilian soil.
The beginnings of capoeira are hidden in the poorly documented first centuries of slavery, making it impossible to identify exactly when it started or who the very first Capoeiristas were.
What is clear is that Capoeira became a powerful expression of resistance and freedom. It was prohibited by the 1890 Penal Code of the First Brazilian Republic, which criminalized its practice, but it survived in quilombos and in the streets.
In the 20th century, two great masters shaped capoeira's modern forms. Mestre Pastinha preserved Capoeira Angola, while Mestre Bimba developed Capoeira Regional, helping capoeira gain legal recognition throughout Brazil.
Legendary Masters
The visionaries of Capoeira
Today, capoeira is practiced around the world, valued not only as a martial art but also as a cultural and educational force that promotes respect, cooperation, and happiness. In 2014, UNESCO recognized Capoeira as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, affirming its importance as a living tradition that continues to inspire people of all ages.
Evolution Through Time
16th-19th Century
Underground Practice
Developed in secret by enslaved people
as a form of self-defense disguised as dance and music.
Early 20th Century
Legalization & Schools
Mestre Bimba and Mestre Pastinha formalized
Capoeira, creating the first official schools.
Modern Era
Global Expansion
Capoeira spread worldwide, becoming a symbol of Brazilian culture and Afro-Brazilian heritage.
Historical Documentation
Rare photographs and illustrations that capture the essence of Capoeira throughout history
Traditional Roda de Capoeira
Historical photograph capturing a traditional Capoeira roda, showcasing the circular formation that has been central to Capoeira practice for generations. The white uniforms and formal arrangement demonstrate the art's evolution into organized practice.
Colonial Era Practice
Historical illustration showing enslaved people practicing early forms of Capoeira during the colonial period. This artwork provides valuable insight into how Capoeira was practiced and preserved during times of oppression, often disguised as dance and cultural expression.
Cultural Significance
Symbol of Resistance
Capoeira represents the struggle for freedom and dignity. It preserved African traditions and provided a means of cultural identity for enslaved communities in Brazil.
The art form taught practitioners to be cunning, flexible, and resilient - qualities essential for survival and resistance.
Living Heritage
Today, Capoeira is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, acknowledging its importance in preserving Afro-Brazilian culture.
It continues to teach values of respect, community, and cultural pride to practitioners around the world.