Belem

Belem is the capital of Para province in Brazil, South America. The city is known also as the main port of the Amazon river and as the city of Mango trees. It is an industrialized area and the economic center of north Brazil. It is a city of contradictions both of natural and people's point of view. It is a hot equatorial city, but also one of the rainiest places in the world. It offers some pretty colonial buildings in the old town, while having extensive poor slum areas around the city. When in Belem, you should not miss the Cidade Velha, or old town. Here are preserved some of the best colonial buildings, among which the Cathedral (1748). Also the Praca da Republica (Republic Square), a nightlife hangout, crowned with the Neo Classical Teatro Paz is a must. Other sights are the 1909 Basilica of Nossa Senhora de Nazaré, with its astounding stained glass windows, paid for with the profits made on rubber plants, upstream. A peculiar sight is the replica of the Big Ben tower on the Praca do Mercado, just next to the fishing port. A nice modern touristic center exists in the old harbor area. There are three different spaces: one for events such like conventions, one for gastronomy and another one for arts. There you can also schedule boat rides. The most interesting of all leaves at four o'clock every morning, and leads the tourists to the so called "Parrots Island"- these birds chose it to spend the nights, and the visit occurs at the time they begin to fly away: unforgettable place for bird lovers. And don't forget - there are tons more of attractions, activities and interesting places to see in Belem, visit them and write here at HolidayStreets.com about their beauty and mystery!