at a glance

home to over 6 million people, rio's cultural diversity, social challenges and economic efforts of the past are still evident across the city - large, modern residences are sometimes just a few steps away from the entrance to some of rio's developing neighborhoods, known as 'favelas.'

a variety of architectures and styles, often in contrast with each other, tell the story of a complex city and its arrhythmic development, and provide a detailed and invaluable historical commentary.

rio's social contradictions are clearly visible in areas such as the elegant são conrado, where the imposing rocinha is the backdrop of expensive condominiums - or in the charming santa teresa, with luxurious villas overlooking favelas on nearly all sides.