in
the 1980's, as a result of this last
expansion the city program for the
proper development of favelas called
favela bairro started to operate in
vila canoas.
today, many of the residents of vila
canoas work in
são conrado.
vila canoas is known to
be one of the smallest and safest
favelas in rio de janeiro. very close to
rocinha, the largest favela in rio, vila
canoas is located inside the rainforest
and maintains a very distinct atmosphere
and identity.
although this community has not been
occupied by the polícia
pacificadora, there is generally no notice of
organized drug trade in vila canoas.