Iphan to grant first federal heritage status to Rio Candomblé terreiro

The National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (Iphan) is set to perform the first federal cultural designation of a Candomblé terreiro in the state of Rio de Janeiro. The Axé Oloroke Pantanal, located in Duque de Caxias, is one of the oldest active sites of the Efon Nation in the country.

Founded by Cristóvão Lopes dos Anjos, the terreiro has a long history of religious significance and community presence. The federal designation is expected to provide protection through Iphan, the Federal Police, and other competent agencies. Regional superintendent Patrícia Correa noted that this step encourages other religious sites to seek similar recognition.

The move comes amid ongoing concerns regarding religious intolerance in Brazil. The history of the site includes figures such as Joãozinho da Gomeia, who established the terreiro as a major center in the 1950s, and current leadership under Mãe Maria de Xangô.