cidade de deus (city of god) was originally built as an intended residence for state officials in the 60's.  many areas of cidade de deus are named in honor of personalities, places and events of the holy bible.

in 1966, due to a change in the city's administration, as well as the severe damage and devastation caused by one powerful storm, the original buildings were intended as temporary housing for thousands of affected residents, mostly from rio's favelas.

over time the growing population expanded and constructed housing around the original buildings, essentially making the relocation permanent.