Legacy of Niède Guidon marks Serra da Capivara and the lives of residents in PI: 'He took root in this land'

Legacy of Niède Guidon marks Serra da Capivara and the lives of residents in PI: 'He created roots in this land' — Photo: Reproduction

Among the greatest symbols of the Northeast is the Serra da Capivara National Park, located in the south of Piauí. Recognized for its archaeological richness and historical importance, the site has become a world reference thanks to the work of French-Brazilian archaeologist Niède Guidon.

The legacy of the French-Brazilian archaeologist was highlighted in the program "Dia do Nordestino", shown by Globo in the early hours of this Saturday (10).

Born in São Paulo, the researcher left her home state to dedicate herself to studying archaeological sites in the region. Over the decades, he has gained international recognition for his contributions to research into the peopling of the Americas.

Niède Guidon's work was also fundamental for the park to receive the title of Cultural Heritage of Humanity by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco), in 1991. More than three decades later, the archaeologist's legacy continues to generate impacts in the region.

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From one of the initiatives she created came the project that employs more than 60 female guards, responsible for controlling access to the park. For Diana Maria de Assis, the work represents a unique opportunity.

"For me, it is a great privilege to work in a park like this, in such an important unit. I am also very grateful to Dr. Niède for welcoming the women", she commented.

For many workers in Serra da Capivara, Niède Guidon became a true northeasterner.

Legacy of Niède Guidon marks Serra da Capivara and the lives of residents in PI: 'He created roots in this land' — Photo: Reproduction

According to the archaeologist and head of the park, Marian Rodrigues, employees used to call her "Capivarense", in reference to the bond built with the region over the years.

"Doctor Niède was a legitimate catingueira, as we like to say. She was a capivarense, because she completely changed her life, she came to live here, worked tirelessly for 50 years and created roots in this land", he stated.

Marian Rodrigues — Photo: Reproduction

The researcher's trajectory also inspired cultural manifestations. His story became the subject of songs, artistic presentations and a book that narrates his life through illustrations produced by children.

For Valeska Zanello, one of the authors of the book "Niède Guidon: the archaeologist of humanity", the researcher's trajectory is an example for girls and women.

"Her great love and dedication were focused on science. We owe a lot to this woman. Knowing biographies like Niède Guidon's is important to show girls that there are many ways to be fulfilled and happy," he said.

Legacy of Niède Guidon marks Serra da Capivara and the lives of residents in PI: 'He created roots in this land' — Photo: Reproduction

Death of Niède Guidon

Archaeologist Niède Guidon died at the age of 92, on June 4, 2025, in São Raimundo Nonato, in the south of Piauí.

Internationally recognized for her research carried out in the Serra da Capivara National Park, she dedicated decades to the preservation of Brazilian archaeological heritage and helped transform the region into a global reference for studies on human occupation in the Americas.

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