rio de janeiro's mayor at the time, henrique dodsworth, played a large role in the revamping process, and as years went by, the people of rio de janeiro began using the forest as an area of relaxation and leisure. 

this is when the forest also became a popular tourist attraction - many not knowing the rich history of this green part of the city.

after four centuries of human occupation, there is an impressive historical and cultural heritage enshrined in the park, much of which is preserved today.