The origin of the Solemnity of the Body and the Blood of Christ dates from the 13th century. In those days the Catholic Church felt the need to strengthen the real presence of Christ in the consecrated bread and therefore Pope Urbane IV established it on august 11th, 1264.

In many Brazilian cities it is customary to embellish the streets of the procession with lively coloured tapestries inspired in religious motifs. The festivity is a live tradition in Brazil, specially in historic cities like Paraty. On these days, towns dress up in ancient and traditional practices, decorated following old local customs.

The main element of the Corpus Christi is the procession. During these dates the cobble stone streets of the Historic Centre of Paraty are decorated with beautiful tapestries made of coloured sawdust, pigments, lime, flowers, coffee grains and other materials.

The drawings on the tapestries are elaborated with the images of Jesus, the chalice and other Eucharistic motifs. In Paraty, which has been declared National Historic Monument, the Corpus Christi celebration is held with firm liturgical observance.