São Luís, Colonial capital in Maranhão, Brazil
São Luís is the capital of Maranhão on an island between São Marcos Bay and São José Bay, sitting at about 4 meters (13 feet) elevation. The historic center shows streets lined with Portuguese colonial architecture in stone and decorated tiles.
French officer Daniel de la Touche founded the settlement in 1612, naming it after King Louis XIII. Portuguese forces captured the city in 1615 and developed it into the regional capital over the following centuries.
The city honors French King Louis XIII in its name, though it remained under French control for only three years. Visitors today see Portuguese azulejos covering the facades of many buildings in the center, dating from the 18th and 19th centuries.
The city sits on an island connected by bridges to the mainland, so travelers can plan connections to other cities in Maranhão. The central area is walkable, with many streets paved in cobblestone.
The Institute of History and Geography stands among the earliest research institutions of its kind in Brazil. The deep-water port of Itaqui plays a major role in exporting aluminum, steel, and agricultural products from the region.
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