Country | Brazil |
Population | 2023 |
Area | 1,221 km2 (486.5 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC−3 (BRT) |
Coordinates | -22.90642, -43.18223 |
Highest elevation | 2 m (7 ft) |
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City Description
Rio de Janeiro, commonly referred to as Rio, is the capital city of the state of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. With a population of around 6.7 million as of 2021, it is the second-most-populous city in Brazil and the sixth-most-populous in the Americas. The city was founded in 1565 by the Portuguese and served as the capital of Brazil from 1763 until 1960, when the capital was moved to Brasília.
Geographically, Rio de Janeiro is located on the southeastern coast of Brazil, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the south and surrounded by lush mountains and hills. The city’s topography is defined by its famous beaches such as Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon, as well as notable landmarks like Sugarloaf Mountain and the Corcovado Mountain, which is home to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Culturally, Rio de Janeiro is renowned for its vibrant Carnaval festival, which attracts millions of visitors each year. The city is also a hub for samba and bossa nova music, contributing significantly to Brazil’s rich musical heritage. The Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí is a major venue for the Carnaval parades, showcasing the elaborate floats and costumes of various samba schools.
Economically, Rio de Janeiro is a powerhouse, with the second-largest municipal GDP in Brazil and the 30th-largest in the world as of 2008, estimated at R$343 billion. The city is home to the headquarters of major Brazilian companies such as Petrobras and Vale, as well as Latin America’s largest telemedia conglomerate, Grupo Globo. Rio is also a significant center for research and development, housing many universities and institutes that contribute to its reputation as the second-largest center of R&D in Brazil.
Despite its reputation for crime, recent data suggests that Rio de Janeiro has a lower crime rate than many other Brazilian state capitals. Efforts to improve safety and security, particularly in preparation for international events, have contributed to this decline.
Rio de Janeiro is a major tourist destination, with attractions that include not only its natural beauty and beaches but also historic and cultural sites such as the Tijuca National Park, the Botanical Garden, and the historic downtown area with landmarks like the Municipal Theatre and the National Library. The city hosted the 2016 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, making it the first South American city to do so. Additionally, Rio has hosted several major football events, including the finals of the 1950 and 2014 FIFA World Cups and the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup at the Maracanã Stadium.
Rio’s transportation infrastructure includes the Galeão International Airport and the Santos Dumont Airport, facilitating both domestic and international travel. The city’s public transportation system comprises buses, metro lines, and trams, with ongoing improvements to support its growing population and tourism industry.
In 2024, Rio de Janeiro will host the G20 summit, further cementing its status as a key global city. The city’s blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and economic significance makes it one of the most dynamic and interesting cities in the world.
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