Conheça Belém do Pará. A porta de entrada da Amazônia. Brasil

 

Belém do Pará, often simply referred to as Belém, is the capital city of the state of Pará in northern Brazil. It is one of the most important cultural and historical cities in the Amazon region. Here are some key points about Belém:

### Geography and Climate

- **Location**: Belém is situated at the mouth of the Amazon River, near the Guajará Bay.

- **Climate**: The city has a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by high humidity and temperatures that average around 26°C (79°F) throughout the year. The rainy season typically lasts from December to May.

### History

- **Founding**: Belém was founded in 1616 by the Portuguese as a fort to protect the region from foreign invasions.

- **Growth**: The city grew significantly during the rubber boom in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which brought wealth and development to the region.

### Culture and Attractions

- **Ver-o-Peso Market**: One of the oldest and most famous markets in Brazil, offering a variety of local products, including fish, fruits, and handicrafts.

- **Theatro da Paz**: A historic opera house built during the rubber boom, showcasing beautiful architecture and hosting various cultural events.

- **Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi**: A research institution and museum that focuses on the natural and cultural heritage of the Amazon region.

- **Basilica of Our Lady of Nazareth**: A significant religious site and a beautiful example of neo-Gothic architecture.

- **Estação das Docas**: A revitalized dock area that now houses restaurants, shops, and cultural spaces, offering a vibrant nightlife and scenic views of the river.

### Cuisine

- **Tacacá**: A traditional soup made with tucupi (a yellow liquid extracted from wild manioc root), jambu (a local leafy vegetable), and dried shrimp.

- **Açaí**: Belém is famous for its açaí, often served as a thick, purple paste and eaten with fish or other accompaniments.

- **Pato no Tucupi**: A dish made with duck in a sauce of tucupi and jambu, typically served with rice and manioc flour.

### Economy

- **Port**: Belém has a significant port that plays a crucial role in the regional economy, facilitating trade and transportation.

- **Agriculture**: The surrounding region is rich in agricultural products, including açaí, palm oil, and tropical fruits.

### Festivals

- **Círio de Nazaré**: One of the largest religious festivals in Brazil, held in October, attracting millions of pilgrims who honor Our Lady of Nazareth.

Belém is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a unique glimpse into the Amazonian way of life.