Manaus, Capital city in Amazonas, Brazil
Manaus is the capital of Amazonas state in northern Brazil, located on the north bank of the Negro River about 11 miles (18 kilometers) upstream from its junction with the Solimões. The city spreads across several hills and flat riverside areas, divided by smaller rivers and channels into different urban zones.
The settlement began as Fort São José do Rio Negro in 1669 and grew into a center of rubber trade during the late 19th century. The economic boom funded the construction of grand public buildings and attracted European immigrants before the rubber market collapsed after 1910.
Theater and music performances take place regularly in the historic opera house, while riverfront markets sell regional produce and fish specialties from the Amazon basin. Local festivals and religious processions bring residents from different neighborhoods together, reflecting the mix of indigenous, European and African traditions.
The downtown area is walkable, while boat connections are used to cross rivers and reach distant neighborhoods. Tropical heat and frequent afternoon rain showers define the climate year round, so light clothing and rain protection are recommended.
The Meeting of Waters shows the Negro and Solimões rivers flowing side by side for several miles without blending, creating a clear boundary between dark and light water. This phenomenon occurs because of differences in temperature, speed and density between the two rivers.
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