Analyze occurred as the gradual structuring of urban networks (civil and ecclesiastical) of the hinterlands of North captaincies is the purpose of this essay. Focusing on areas of current internalized states that comprise the Northeast region of Brazil, aims to uncover the urbanization policy of Portugal through the institutionalization of human settlements, strategically leased territory, for favoring the Portuguese State and the Catholic Church, the united over colonialism by papal agreements of mutual benefits. "Cattle corral" seeks to clarify how the ranching was the main element for settlement and land tenure hinterland. Without ranching would not be possible the emergence of the parishes, villages and cities, in other works, "Soul's corral".
Colonialism; ranching; urban networks; northeastern backlands; urbanization