rio's unmatched wealth of natural landmarks within its borders has earned the city the title of 'cidade maravilhosa' (marvelous city) - in 2012 rio de janeiro was declared world heritage site by unesco, in recognition of the city's exceptional natural and artificial landscapes.

unesco recognized rio's exceptional urban setting as integral part of the natural elements that shaped and inspired the development of the city between the mountains and the ocean.

unesco highlighted the universal value of several landmarks such as the tijuca national park, the corcovado mountain with the statue of christ, the sugar loaf, the forts and the hills of guanabara bay, and the designs of flamengo and copacabana.