Rio de Janeiro is one of the most eclectic metropolises in the world - a vast and truly unique mosaic, comprised of a wide range of social, cultural and physical landscapes. Understanding the city's past is vital in understanding its exceptional and multi-faceted contemporary identity.

Rio's history follows a fascinating trajectory: ranging from early indigenous population to Portuguese colonial rule, and from a monarchy to a republic, and even a civilian-military dictatorship. Throughout its various important epochs, the city has generated beautiful architecture, arts, culture, music, food, and a vibrant spirit.

Rio's sea-port made it a region of vital strategic importance in the trade of sugar, gold and coffee and the state was hence made capital of the country in 1763 - a title that it retained on and off for almost two hundred years. The port's position and city's role of capital are widely considered to be two of the most important factors in the expansion and evolution of the somewhat unlikely swampy and mountainous region.