Brazil

 

The Federative Republic of Brazil is simultaneously South America’s largest country (by both population and geographical size) as well as one of its most diverse and fascinating. It is filled to the brim with intriguing people, plants and animals as well as liberal doses of history, religion, culture and sporting greatness.

The most densely populated parts of Brazil are in the south-central regions, which include major urban conglomerates like Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.

 

Because of the rapid growth experienced by this country in terms of urban development, industrialisation and population at the beginning of the 21st century, Brazil is facing a number of social, environmental and political challenges.

Classic view of iconic sidewalk pattern, palm trees, and bright blue sky at Ipanema Beach, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

However, it is also because of this growth that it is doing so well in terms of its economy. In fact, it is one of the world’s largest and most significant economies. It is also the only Portuguese-speaking country in both North and South America.

This Portuguese heritage dates back to the 1700’s, when Brazil was first colonised by this European nation. During its rich and complex history, slavery was a major part of the Brazilian heritage, although this was never formally recorded in the annals of history. Slaves were brought to the country across the Pacific Ocean from Africa. Therefore, there is also a large proportion of Brazilian inhabitants that have an African heritage.

Others of European and Asian descent immigrated to Brazil in the 19th century. These ones were mainly from Japan, Poland, Spain, Italy and Germany. Therefore, this country is now a melting pot of ethnic and cultural diversity. Despite such diversity, Brazil maintains strong national pride and religious devotion. The vast majority, approximately 75%, of the population is Roman Catholic, while the rest are largely Christian or subscribe to the various African-based beliefs.

Brazil enjoys an extensive coastline that measures almost 7 500 kilometres (or more than 4 600 miles). Its other borders are made up of Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, Colombia, Bolivia, Peru, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay. In fact, Ecuador and Chile are the only South American countries with which Brazil does not share its borders.

Brazil enjoys an extensive coastline that measures almost 7 500 kilometres (or more than 4 600 miles). Its other borders are made up of Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, Colombia, Bolivia, Peru, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay. In fact, Ecuador and Chile are the only South American countries with which Brazil does not share its borders

There are various groups of islands that also belong to Brazil, such as Saint Peter, Trindade and Fernando de Noronha, amongst others. Its entire area measures exactly 8 514 876.599 square kilometres or 3 287 612 square miles.

Apart from being geographically large, Brazil is also naturally diverse. It comprises dense rain forests and jungles, expanses of coastline, towering mountains, oceanic archipelagos (or clusters of islands), rivers, scrublands and rolling plains. Because of such a variation in habitats available to plants and animals, Brazil boasts a rich array of fauna and flora.

Copon Building, "S" shape, a landmark in the center of São Paulo city, Brazil.

In fact, scientists estimate that this South American country is home to about four million different species. Particularly extensive are this country’s populations of birds and amphibians.

In terms of the local culture, Brazil continues to be influenced by the traditions and customs of the Portuguese. This is evident in the architecture, music, literature, cuisine, dance, religion and theatre of the country.

Being home to the Amazon Rainforest, many other such natural wonders, cultural attractions and historical remnants makes Brazil a fascinating tourist destination and home. As the Host Country for the 2016 Summer Olympics, it is guaranteed an influx of travellers and football fans from around the world.

Here is the Brazil tourism portal: www.visitbrasil.com

And

Here is the Brazilian Government portal: https://www.brasil.gov.br/

Here is the Embassy of Brazil in Pretoria, South Africa: https://pretoria.itamaraty.gov.br



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