Like many coastal cities Araquari has its founding myth linked to the European occupation process in America, in the first phase of the age of discoveries.

According to information from the municipal Department of Culture the European foundation of Araquari is set 40 years after the discovery of Brazil in 1500.

[citation needed] The Spanish navigator Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca landed what is now Barra Velha and encouraged the exploration of the northern region, until then inhabited by Indios.

Another pioneer, Joaquim da Rocha Coutinho, joined him and the two decided to found a village, but failed to reach an agreement on the site.

[citation needed] The Judge of the District of São Francisco ruled in favor of Rocha Coutinho who built homes on the banks of the river Parati, surrounding pastures and crops.