Arariboia, Bronze sculpture in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Arariboia is a bronze statue in Niterói depicting a tribal leader wearing traditional garments in an upright, commanding stance at the city's waterfront entrance. The sculpture stands prominently along the promenade where visitors can view it while walking or observing the bay.
The monument honors a Temiminó chief from the 16th century who played a role in expelling French colonizers from Guanabara Bay. His actions ultimately led to the establishment of a settlement that grew into the city of Niterói.
The statue portrays a leader whose role shaped the founding of Niterói and its early development. Standing at the waterfront, it draws attention to the complex relationships between different groups who built this region.
The statue is best reached by taking the ferry from Rio de Janeiro to Niterói and then walking along the waterfront promenade. This location is easily accessible and makes for a pleasant stroll with views of the surrounding bay.
This site marks where the historical leader received land grants from Portuguese authorities that became the foundation for settlement. It therefore represents the symbolic birthplace of Niterói as an organized city.
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