[7] Non-indigenous settlement in the area began in 1810, when alferes Julião Fernandes Leão set up barracks along the Jequitinhonha River.

Settlement in the area was encouraged due to its location on the banks of the Jequitinhonha River, as it was a meeting point for tropeiros and canoeists, and because it was home to a textile factory that operated between 1880 and 1928.

The city's GDP is around R$ 148.3 million reais, with 47.9% of the added value coming from public administration, followed by services (28.7%), industry (13.3%) and agriculture (10.2%).

[14] The city's anniversary on December 31st is the biggest New Year's Eve celebration in the region, with nationally famous artists performing.

[15] The city also celebrates Carnival[16] and, in September, the Nossa Senhora da Ajuda festival transforms the streets into open-air markets during the day, along with musical performances at night.