TripZillaBeing the host of the FIFA World Cup has thrust Rio de Janeiro into the spotlight. In two years’ time, Rio will prepare for yet another spotlight as it hosts the 2016 Summer Olympics and the 2016 Summer Paralympics.
Rio de Janeiro is often mistaken as the capital of Brazil. In actuality, the capital has been Brasília since 1960. This mistake is understandable, however, considering the global popularity and international recognition of Rio, and the fact that it was previously Brazil’s capital from 1763 to 1960 — a far longer time than Brasília!
Image credit: David Mark via Pixabay
Portuguese explorers reached Guanabara Bay in January 1502, and mistaking the bay for a river, named it Rio de Janeiro, which translates to River of January in Portuguese. The city was named after the bay, explaining how this gorgeous Brazilian city got its name!
A part of the city has been designated as a World Heritage Site, named “Rio de Janeiro: Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea”. The big statue of Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado Mountain is famed as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, making it one of the most recognisable statues in the world.
Christ the Redeemer | Image credit: Jose Guertzenstein via Pixabay
Rio de Janeiro is also proud of its natural beauty, stunning beaches and rich culture emanating from their music and carnival celebrations. The annual Rio Carnival is considered to be the biggest carnival in the world, drawing in two million people every day onto the streets in celebration! Is it any wonder that Rio de Janeiro is one of the most visited South American cities?
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