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Airports near Rio de Janeiro
- Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro- Santos Dumont Airport Tips & Details
- Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro-Galeao International Airport Tips & Details
Rio de Janeiro Description
Rio de Janeiro is one of the world's most famous cities. Established around 1560, it was initially the site of fierce battles between France and Portugal for control of the region. It benefited from the mineral boom in Minas Gerais, as all of the gold, silver and gems had to pass through Rio on their way to Europe. The city boomed, and became the colonial capital in 1763. In 1808, the king of Portugal and his court were forced to flee Napoleon's troops and established the capital of the Portuguese Empire in Rio. This arrangement lasted until 1821, when the court returned to Portugal. Today, this city of almost six million inhabitants is one of the most picturesque in the world. The cities' beaches are world-class: two well-known examples are Copacabana and Ipanema. The giant statue of Christ at Corcovado, his arms outstretched to bless the city, is Rio's most famous landmark. A close second is Sugarloaf (Po de Acar), the green mountain that juts out of Guanabara bay. The cable car ride to the top of Sugarloaf is a must for visitors.
