Situated in central Brazil, the city of Goiânia was designed and erected in the 20th century. Today, it is a bustling capital of the state of Goiás. Its residents represent a diverse mixture of races and cultures which gives the metropolis its unique structure and atmosphere, best reflected by Monumento às Três Raças (the Monument of Three Races) at Praça Cívica square.
Goiânia was established in 1933 to replace the former capital. In 1937 the local government moved to Goiânia, but it was not until 1942 when the inauguration ceremony with representatives of the highest national authorities took place. The city is an economic heart of the region and a strategic industrial and medical center. Its most interesting sightseeing spot is certainly the Goiás Avenue that goes from north to south and crosses Anhanguera Avenue in the center. The city was designed to give a home to approximately 50.000 residents but today the population amounts to about 1.5 million! The very first buildings, designed by Attílio Corrêa Lima, were inspired by Art Deco style. 22 of those entered the UNESCO World Heritage List – it’s a must to see them!
Goiânia offers multiple attractions: monuments, parks, and markets. Don’t miss the before mentioned Praça Cívica with Palace of Pedro Ludovico, and Praça Universitária with numerous stunning sculptures. Also, Centro Cultural Oscar Niemeyer is worth a visit. It houses a theater and a museum of the city’s culture. Its creator is a famous architect who also designed the capital of the country – Brasilia. At Feira do Sol you can buy paintings by popular artists. For handicraft items and delicious locally produced cheese go to Mercado Central. Once the shopping is over, take a rest from the city’s turmoil in the Flamboyant or Vaca Brava Park.
Agriculture is of high significance for the region. The most cultivated crop is soybeans and corn, which are naturally the basis of the local diet. In the city, you will easily order typically Brazilian, toothsome steaks and carne del sol made of sun-dried salted meat. Taste the best local cuisine in recommended restaurants, such as Carne de Sol 1008, Botequim Mercato, and Chao Nativo.
