Situated near the Guama River, Belem is the capital city of
the state of Para. The river defines Belenense life, and located along its
banks are many of the city’s most interesting sights. The discovery of the
rubber and its importance in the 19th and early 20th
centuries triggered an economic boom in Belem. The newfound wealth fueled
infrastructure and it was during this time that most of Belem’s splendid
colonial buildings were constructed. Belem became known as the “Tropical
Paris”, and this cultural legacy is still evident in the city today. Today,
Belem remains an important commercial and economic center, transporting immense
quantities of fish, shrimp, and timber, through its port. Although there is a
strong commercial element to the city, recent renovations to the dock area and
Belem’s strong cultural heritage mean it still retains its 19th
century charm. Here we did not take a tour, but toured on our own. It was an
interesting city, with a big police presence. We are assuming it was not just
for us, but also for Carnival, which is next Tuesday. Here are some pictures of
the renovated port. It was very nice, air conditioned, not crowded and had good
beer, and so-so wifi.
Belem has a wealth of appealing historical buildings,
including palaces, churches and fortresses. The Forte do Presepio is one of the
oldest and dates back to the early part of the 17th century, built
to defend the city against the Dutch and French. We visited the fort and I told
them we were old people and we got in free. He did not understand the word
senior.
There are exquisite 19th century Italianate buildings and
narrow street lined with 18th century Portuguese style row houses.
Belem also has an abundance of excellent museums including the ecological
museum founded by Emilio Goeld, the most important research center studying the
natural history of the Amazon rainforest.
Well they also have a string of markets as you come out of
the port, with everything from t-shirts to flour and fish. Each lane of the
market is labeled with what is down that aisle. They also have a large food
court in the middle.
Leaving the market and walking towards the Cathedral we
passed all the fishing boats that had brought their catches into the market.
Also, on a wall was a blue mural that looked like you were looking down a
street.
We then went to the Cathedral da Se. This was also a very
lovely cathedral.
That evening as we were leaving there was a beautiful
sunset.
Tomorrow is cruising down
the Amazon. Then the next day and the following four days we will be in
port every day.
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