at a glance

the meticulous planning in its urban area resulted in the creation of several green zones, the bosque da barra (barra's woodland) being a prime example. the local shopping malls are among the most modern in rio de janeiro,  and are especially impressive - also characteristic are the self-enclosed residential areas, which include stores and services, and have rather impressive designs, becoming attractions in themselves.

in the center of the neighborhood there is also the city of arts, (cidade das artes)- a large complex which displays a set of auditoriums. it was designed to expand the scope of cultural and social events in barra.

landmarks in barra da tijuca include the chico mendes park, a protected area for wild animals, barra shopping, the largest shopping center in rio de janeiro, riocentro, the convention center, and the motor racing track ('autodromo').