Morro Cara de Cão, Summit in Urca, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Morro Cara de Cão is a summit on the western shore of Guanabara Bay with a profile that resembles a dog's head. Rising to 98 meters, it can be reached by various hiking trails that wind through the local terrain.
The mountain was the site where Rio de Janeiro was founded in 1565 when Estácio de Sá established the first settlements between this peak and Pão de Açúcar. These early settlements marked the beginning of European presence in the region.
The Fortress of São João stands here and serves today as a military training facility for the Brazilian Army. This structure shapes how people see the mountain and marks its role in protecting the bay.
Wear sturdy footwear and check weather conditions before heading up, as rain can affect the trail conditions. The paths are open at various times throughout the day, with early morning often offering fewer crowds.
Among the three neighboring peaks in the bay, this one ranks third in height with a prominence of 80 meters. Its dog-head shape makes it instantly recognizable from a distance and sets it apart from its neighboring mountains.
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