The downtown area is where the 400-year-old city started to grow . Despite this hectic movement, you can discover the most interesting places, combining baroque and modern architecture, little cafes, and pedestrian streets. Rio’s rich history is portrayed in various buildings and museums throughout the neighborhood.
Rio de Janeiro’s historic center is home to several significant churches, such as the Candelária Church and the Church of São Francisco da Penitência. These churches boast impressive architecture, with intricate interiors and religious artwork.
The streets of the historic center are often paved with traditional Portuguese-style cobblestones, known as “calçada portuguesa.” The influence of Baroque and Neoclassical architectural styles is evident in various churches and government buildings. Baroque elements, such as elaborate ornamentation and dramatic facades, are particularly prominent in religious structures, while Neoclassical features, like symmetry and columns, are seen in government and institutional buildings.
This area is a great place to stay in when visiting because it is very economical and full of people during the day. At night it can be a little sketchy so please be aware of your surrounding when venturing out.