Must See Brazilian Landmarks

A country is often defined by its memorable and imposing landmarks. Brazil is no exception, with its awe-inspiring triumphs of nature, and achievements of modern man. These landmarks draw visitors from every corner of the globe to be admired and viewed in awe. Here are the must-see man made, and natural landmarks that make Brazil unique.

 


 

Cristo Redentor

This is the large statue of an outstretched Jesus Christ that sits upon Corcovado Mountain overlooking Rio de Janeiro. Completed, and opened, in 1931, the statue was first suggested to honor Princess Isabel, daughter of the first emperor, Pedro II. The statue, over the years, became an icon for both the city and the Catholics. So much so that in 2006 the archbishop of Rio had it consecrated. It can be easily accessed via the tram that starts off in the Santa Teresa neighborhood. While in Rio be sure to see the city’s other landmarks, such as the Arcos da Lapa Bridge, the urban beach of Copacabana and the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain.

 


 

Pátio do Colégio

This small Jesuit College may not look too imposing, but it is the founding site of São Paulo itself. Steeped in history and lore, if this building was not built by Jesuit monks, the city of São Paulo would not be around today. While in São Paulo, tour the other cultural buildings such as the Teatro Municipal — a beautifully ornate opera house — and the São Paulo Cathedral — a gothic symbol of the city. If looking for something more modern, there are many buildings by renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer, most famously the S shaped Edifício Copan.

 


 

Amazon Rainforest and River

The sprawling 5.5 million square kilometers of the Amazon Rainforest comprises over half of the planet’s remaining rainforests and is the largest and most biodiverse tract of tropical rainforest in the world. Contained within it is its life force, the Amazon River, which is the largest river in terms of volume and discharge in the world. Together, these two giants create the most spectacular natural wilderness that one should visit. Tours usually start in the Brazilian city of Manaus, which also contains a lavish opera house, the Teatro Amazona.

 


 

Iguaçu Falls

This thundering maelstrom of churning white water is a sight to behold. The raw power contained in the cascading water echoes throughout the surrounding forest. The falls were brought to the attention of the wider world by Spanish explorers in 1541; the name comes from the Guarani word meaning ‘water’ and ‘big’. The falls themselves are separated into numerous smaller falls, and one large impressive drop, called the Devil’s Throat. To visit the falls make your way to the Brazilian city of Foz do Iguaçu.