Prefeitura Municipal de Criciúma

Criciúma was colonized by Italian immigrants who arrived in the region in 1880 after a long and difficult journey. These pioneers explored the area and began building their lives, discovering mineral coal in 1893 and initiating Criciúma’s economic development. By the 1970s, the city had transformed into an industrial center, known for its production of ceramics, plastics, and textiles. Beyond industrialization, the city advanced culturally and educationally, with the founding of the University of Southern Santa Catarina and other educational institutions. Today, Criciúma is a modern city that preserves the history and legacy of its Italian settlers.