Rio de Janeiro, often called the "Marvelous City," is a vibrant tapestry woven from diverse cultural, historical, and social threads. Its story begins with the indigenous Tupi, Puri, Botocudo, and Maxakalí peoples who originally inhabited the region. The city's name, translating to "River of January," originates from Portuguese explorers who arrived at Guanabara Bay on January 1, 1502, mistakenly believing it to be the mouth of a river.
In the mid-16th century, French colonists attempted to establish a foothold in the area, supported by the Tupinambá people, who sought allies against Portuguese domination. By 1567, the Portuguese expelled the French, solidifying their control over the region. This period marked the beginning of a colonial era that would profoundly shape Rio's cultural and architectural landscape.
