Belém, the capital of the state of Pará, was founded on 12 January 1616 by the Portuguese under the name Feliz Lusitânia, as a strategic point to secure the Crown’s control over the Amazon. Originally a military fortress, the city developed around the Forte do Presépio, which can still be visited today in the Cidade Velha neighbourhood. During the colonial period, Belém expanded through the exploitation of the region’s natural resources, such as forest herbs and spices, becoming an important trading post between Europe and the Amazon. At the end of the 19th century, the Rubber Boom brought a period of great prosperity, which is still visible in the European-influenced architecture of its mansions and squares. With its indigenous, Portuguese, African and caboclo heritage, Belém has become one of the most significant cultural and historical centres of the Brazilian Amazon, preserving a rich and complex identity deeply connected to the forest and rivers.
Belém’s culture is shaped by a vibrant fusion of indigenous, Afro-Brazilian, and Portuguese traditions. Local cuisine, especially dishes like açaí, pato no tucupi, and tacacá, plays a central role in the city’s identity. Cultural expressions such as the Círio de Nazaré highlight the strong religious devotion of the people of Pará. Music, handicrafts, and riverside folklore complete the city’s unique cultural landscape.
Belém offers authentic experiences deeply connected to Amazonian nature and culture. Stroll through the Estação das Docas to sample local gastronomy with views over Guajará Bay. Visit the Ver-o-Peso Market and immerse yourself in the scents and colours of the Amazon. Explore the Mangal das Garças, an ecological sanctuary in the heart of the city. Wander through the historic centre and discover colonial architecture and museums that tell the city’s rich story. For a unique spiritual experience, take part in the Círio de Nazaré or visit the Basilica Sanctuary.
Ver-o-Peso is a Belém icon, one of the largest open-air markets in Latin America. Mangal das Garças offers direct contact with Amazonian flora and fauna. The Estação das Docas blends cuisine, culture, and leisure in restored former port warehouses. The neoclassical Theatro da Paz dates back to the rubber boom and symbolises the city’s cultural wealth. Forte do Presépio and the Feliz Lusitânia Complex preserve the city’s historical foundations. The Emílio Goeldi Museum is a reference point for research into Amazon biodiversity.
The standout event in Belém’s calendar is the Círio de Nazaré, held in October, attracting millions of devotees in one of the world’s largest Catholic processions. In June, arraial festivals bring traditional dances and regional food. The Theatro da Paz Opera Festival and the Pan-Amazon Book Fair energise the city’s cultural scene. The Ver-o-Peso Festival of Pará Cuisine is also worth experiencing, celebrating the richness of local flavours. Public holidays such as the City’s Foundation Day (12 January) and Corpus Christi are marked by both community and religious festivities.
Belém has an equatorial climate — hot and humid all year round. Average temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C, with high relative humidity. The rainy season lasts from December to May, with January and February being the wettest months, often bringing afternoon showers. From June to November, rainfall decreases, making this period ideal for visiting. The constant presence of forest and rivers helps to moderate the heat, creating a typical Amazonian microclimate.
For those travelling from Europe, the main gateway is Belém/Val-de-Cans International Airport (BEL), which receives connecting flights from major international hubs such as Lisbon, São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Airlines like TAP Air Portugal offer regular services to Brazil, with direct connections to Belém. From the airport, the journey to the city centre takes about 20 minutes by car or taxi. River cruises also offer a scenic, albeit slower, route to the city, particularly for those coming from other parts of the Brazilian Amazon.
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