Ilha Grande is an island located off the southeastern coast of Brazil, and is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. Here are some interesting facts about the history and culture of Ilha Grande Island:History: During the Portuguese colonial period, Ilha Grande Island was used as a place of exile for criminals and rebellious slaves. The island also housed a hospital for infectious diseases, which was closed in the 1990s. Today, the island is a popular tourist destination and a protected nature reserve.Name: The name "Ilha Grande" means "big island" in Portuguese. The island measures about 150 km² and is home to a wide range of endemic flora and fauna.Beaches: Ilha Grande Island is famous for its beautiful beaches, including Lopes Mendes Beach, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. The island is also famous for its natural pools and waterfalls, including the Witch’s Waterfall or Cachoeira da Feiticeira, which we mentioned earlier.Environment: Ilha Grande Island was declared a protected nature reserve in 1981, and is an important biodiversity conservation area. The island is home to numerous endemic species of flora and fauna, many of which are endangered due to human activity.Sustainable tourism: In recent years, the island of Ilha Grande has attracted more and more environmentally conscious, sustainable and nature conservation tourists. The island offers many ecotourism activities, including trekking, kayaking, diving, and excursions to discover the local fauna and flora.Overall, Ilha Grande Island offers a unique combination of natural beauty, history and culture, and is a perfect destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. It is recommended to visit the island with a respectful attitude toward the surrounding environment and to participate in ecotourism activities to contribute to the preservation of the natural environment.