Belem
is the capital of Para, and it sits at the main point of entry
to the Amazon River fropm the Atlantic Ocean. In the 19th century
Belem was in the midst of the rubber boom. Interesting cultural
attractions such as the Ver o Peso market were created and today
are a reminder of that time. It is an interesting city because
of its location, history, and importance as an economic and
commercial center. Most people use this city as a base before
voyaging on river cruises up and down the Amazon.
Belém's
beautiful, tree-lined streets and squares also have many excellent
hotels and restaurants. The modern airport is regularly serviced
by flights from the United States, Latin America and most Brazilian
cities.
The city can
also be reached by highway from Brasília and the Northeast.
Belém still preserves a small part of the Amazon forest
within the city limits in the Rodrigues Alves Forest, a lovely
park where the original plant life has been protected.
Nature lovers
will also appreciate the Goeldi Museum containing the largest
collection of tropical plants in the world plus a zoological garden,
a botanical garden, an excellent library, and a rich collection
of pottery and ceramics from nearby Marajó Island.
