Avenida Rio Branco, Central boulevard in Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Avenida Rio Branco is a central boulevard in downtown Rio de Janeiro stretching 1,800 meters and 33 meters wide. It connects the port area to the Gloria district and carries hundreds of thousands of pedestrians daily.
The avenue was created in 1904 as part of a major urban renewal program that demolished over 600 buildings and relocated thousands of residents. This ambitious project reshaped Rio de Janeiro's modern center.
The avenue displays Portuguese mosaic sidewalks and monumental eclectic buildings designed by European and Brazilian architects. These design elements shaped the character of the space and reflect a period of major urban change.
The avenue is serviced by light rail transit and has good pedestrian infrastructure throughout. When exploring, it helps to note the metro entrances and various bus stops distributed along the route.
A 600-meter section was transformed in 2016 into a green space with trees, landscaping, bicycle parking, and seating areas for people to rest. This makeover shows how the space is now used for leisure and relaxation.
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