BOSTON – Massachusetts native Daniel Romão de Melo is making his imprint on building cultural bridges between the U.S
the 42-year-old entrepreneur has been actively promoting cultural pride and community engagement among Portuguese and Portuguese-descended communities for more than a decade
“It’s inspiring to learn alongside other Portuguese community leaders from around the world and to experience the cultural heritage that unites us,” said de Melo
Organized by Portugal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in partnership with the Municipality of Santa Maria da Feira in the Aveiro region in mainland Portugal
the event brought together 25 community leaders from 11 countries to empower those who serve Portuguese communities around the world
The event’s main mission was to equip diaspora community leaders with tools to foster the cultural
and economic development of Portuguese communities worldwide
de Melo was joined by Portuguese community representatives from the United States
He noted the event offered participants a blend of skill development and a rich cultural experience
“This training strengthens our ability to support Portuguese communities globally and to connect them with their roots,” he said
Participants engaged in five core panel discussions
including ‘Funding Support from the DGACCP (Directorate General for Consular Affairs and the Portuguese Communities)’; ‘Local Policies for Supporting Community Organizations’; ‘Generating Opportunities and Building Bridges’ through networking; and ‘Government Policies for Portuguese Communities Abroad’
and son of immigrants from Praia da Vitória
de Melo has always had a deep connection to his Azorean roots
With extensive professional experience in residential construction and real estate investments
he has played significant roles in cultural and community organizations
Proprietor of the construction firm DRM Solution of Methuen, he currently serves as vice-president of the Boston Portuguese Festival and is a member of the Advisory Board of the Saab Center for Portuguese Studies at UMass Lowell
In addition, he was president of the Portuguese American Club of Lawrence from 2013 to 2015 and has been affiliated with several organizations, including the Portuguese American Leadership Council of the United States (PALCUS), the Luso American Education Foundation (LAEF)
More recently, he has begun contributing to Terceira’s economy through initiatives in tourism and winemaking, joining the newly formed Associação de Vitivinicultores da Ilha Terceira
he was awarded the Heritage Day of Portugal Award at the State House in Boston for his contributions
He was also awarded the Silver Medal for Cultural Contributions to the City of Praia da Vitória
The third stage of the 2024 Rally dos Sertões proved to be a challenging yet rewarding day for TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s Lucas Moraes and his co-driver Kaíque Bentivoglio
The duo maintained their high level of competition
finishing second in the stage and moving into second place overall after the 336 km special stage
Starting the day in first position after their Stage 2 victory
Lucas and Kaíque embarked on a 386 km route from Santa Maria da Vitória to Luís Eduardo Magalhães
The stage began with a very bumpy section that tested the drivers’ endurance and skill
The narrow roads and sandy tracks made the course even more challenging
slowing down the competitors during the early parts of the day
The stage was temporarily halted due to an incident involving two motorcycles
Lucas and Kaíque encountered two flat tyres
they managed to secure a time of 5h 58m 30s
just 2m 48s behind stage winners Adroaldo Weisheimer and Beco Andreotti
Lucas Moraes and Kaíque Bentivoglio have moved into second place overall in the rally
with the top competitors separated by only a few minutes
The competition continues on with the first leg of the marathon stage
where the cars will cover a total of 293 km
The route will take place entirely within Luís Eduardo Magalhães
and will challenge the teams with its demanding terrain and limited support during the marathon stage
who is also competing in the World Rally-Raid Championship with TOYOTA GAZOO Racing
and Kaíque Bentivoglio will continue to push for top positions as the rally progresses
The team remains focused on maintaining their momentum and building on their strong performances so far
Rally dos Sertões 2024 – Classifications after Stage 3
Red Bull has established itself as the premiere supporter of extreme sports and athletes
and as such fits perfectly with TOYOTA GAZOO Racing's Dakar and W2RC efforts
The Austrian energy drink manufacturer has partnered with TGR over numerous years
and the involvement bore fruit when the team won a second Dakar title in January 2022
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Portugal is a country full of history and culture
reflected in its monuments that attract millions of visitors every year
From imposing monasteries and convents to breathtaking palaces
each of these places tells a part of Portuguese history
attracting not only tourists but also scholars and architecture enthusiasts from all over the world
this list not only highlights the beauty and historical importance of each site but also reflects the preferences and trends of visitors to Portugal
These sites demonstrate the cultural and historical richness of Portugal and are also essential to understanding the evolution of European architecture and the importance of the country in various historical periods
Here are the top 10 according to idealista:
10th - Conímbriga Monographic Museum
is one of the most important archaeological museums in Portugal
the museum is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting the archaeological remains of the ancient Roman city of Conímbriga
one of the largest and best preserved in the country
inhabited since the 9th century BC and reaching its peak during the Roman occupation
the magnificent mosaics that adorned the homes of Conímbriga's wealthiest inhabitants stand out
as well as the sculptures of deities and mythological figures that once adorned the city's public and private buildings
The Museum is not only a centre for the conservation of historical heritage
but also a space for education and awareness-raising
where visitors of all ages can learn about the history and importance of the Roman heritage in Portugal
the museum organises educational activities
9th - National Pantheon
also known as the Church of Santa Engrácia
is a monument of significant historical and cultural importance located in Lisbon
and the church was converted into a pantheon in the 20th century and serves as the final resting place for some of Portugal's most prominent figures
such as Amália Rodrigues and Eusébio da Silva Ferreira
8th - Pena Palace
located at the top of the Sintra Mountains
is one of the main expressions of 19th-century Romanticism in Portugal
This monument is a true symbol of creativity and eccentricity
with a mix of architectural styles including neo-Gothic
who transformed an old ruin into a palace that looks like something out of a fairy tale
In addition to its fascinating architecture
the Pena Palace stands out for its privileged location
offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscape
The interior of the palace is also decorated with impressive richness
tiles and period furniture that tell stories of Portuguese royalty
7th - Mafra Palace
is one of the most imposing and emblematic Baroque monuments in Portugal
Built in the 18th century by order of King João V
this grand architectural complex includes a royal palace
The palace is famous for having one of the most beautiful and oldest libraries in Europe
which houses an invaluable collection of around 36 thousand volumes
covering various areas of knowledge such as theology
The library is also known for housing a colony of bats that
help to preserve the books by eating the insects that could damage the manuscripts
the Mafra Palace stands out for its set of two carillons and six historic organs in the basilica
6th - Monastery of Alcobaça
founded in the 12th century by the Cistercian Order
is one of the largest and oldest Gothic abbeys in Portugal
This monument is famous not only for its imposing Gothic architecture
but also for the love story between Pedro I and Inês de Castro
whose tombs are located inside the monastery
Classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO
the Alcobaça Monastery stands out for its impressive size and the purity of its architectural style
The monastery is also known for its monumental kitchen
the Sala dos Reis and the Cloister of Silence
each with its own beauty and historical significance
5th - National Tile Museum
is one of the most unique and important museums in Portugal
dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of the art of tile
Housed in the former Convent of Madre de Deus
this museum houses a vast collection that covers the history of tile in Portugal from the 15th century to the present day
The collection includes rare and unique examples that demonstrate the technical and artistic evolution of tile
with highlights including tile panels that depict Portuguese historical and cultural scenes
The museum not only offers an in-depth insight into ceramic art and its impact on Portuguese culture
but also hosts temporary exhibitions that explore contemporary connections with this traditional art form
Credits: envato elements; Author: nzooo;
4th - Convent of Christ
was originally built as a Templar fortress in the 12th century and later transformed into a convent of the Order of Christ
Its architecture is a stunning fusion of Gothic
reflecting the various phases of its construction and expansion over the centuries
One of the most notable features of the Convent of Christ is its Chapter Window
a magnificent example of the Manueline style
The convent is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is visited by thousands of people seeking to explore its rich architectural and historical heritage
the Convent of Christ played a crucial role in the religious and political history of Portugal
being associated with historical figures such as Prince Henry the Navigator
3rd - Batalha Monastery
officially known as the Monastery of Santa Maria da Vitória
was built to commemorate the Portuguese victory at the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385
a pivotal event that secured Portugal's independence from Castile
Construction of the monastery was begun by King John I and continued for several generations
The Batalha Monastery is notable for its imperfect chapels that were never completed and are today considered some of the finest examples of flamboyant Gothic architecture in Portugal
The monastery is also famous for its royal cloister and the Founder's Chapel
where the tombs of John I and Philippa of Lancaster
the Batalha Monastery is not only a historical monument
but also a place of profound cultural and spiritual significance
2nd - Belém Tower
Built between 1514 and 1520 during the reign of King Manuel I
the Belém Tower was originally used to defend the Tagus River
it is admired for its Manueline-style architecture with Moorish and Oriental influences
the Belém Tower stands out not only for its architectural beauty
but also for the role it played in Portuguese maritime history
1st - Jerónimos Monastery
The Jerónimos Monastery, located in Belém, Lisbon, is one of the jewels of Manueline architecture and one of Portugal's most emblematic monuments. This monument was built in the 16th century, during the reign of King Manuel I, as a celebration of the Discoveries, particularly after Vasco da Gama returned from India. It is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts visitors from all over the world due to its historical richness and architectural beauty.
In addition to its impressive façade and vast cloister, the Jerónimos Monastery houses the tombs of Portuguese historical figures, including Vasco da Gama and Luís de Camões.
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The 2024 Rally dos Sertões has kicked off with a bang, and TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s Lucas Moraes, alongside co-driver Kaíque Bentivoglio, has taken an early lead in the race. The team is competing with their race-proven GR DKR Hilux T1+ in what is widely recognised as one of the toughest and longest rally-raid events in the world. Despite the event not being part of the official World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) calendar, the Rally dos Sertões remains a significant challenge for all involved.
Unfortunately, due to the collapse of a bridge at 86.45 km, Stage 1 of the rally was cancelled. The stage cancellation was necessary to ensure the safety of all participants, and the rally continued with a free transit to Formosa.
As such, Stage 2, covering a total of 257.53 km of competitive racing, marked the first real test of the rally. This stage featured a variety of terrains, from fast, rally-like roads to narrow, challenging sections with speed bumps, erosions, and creek crossings. The route also included a neutralisation section for refuelling between 124 km and 173 km, followed by a fast final section that took competitors to Santa Maria da Vitória, BA.
Lucas Moraes and Kaíque Bentivoglio continued their dominant performance, securing the fastest time of the day with a total time of 3 hours, 9 minutes, and 28 seconds. They were closely followed by Adroaldo Weisheiner and Beco Andreotti, also driving a Toyota Hilux, who finished 1 minute and 12 seconds behind.
The current standings following Stage 2 see Lucas Moraes in the overall lead, with a 1-minute and 12-second advantage over the second-place competitors. Marcos Moraes, Lucas’s father, is currently in fourth place, continuing to keep the pressure on the leaders.
The final stretch of the stage, from 296 km to 321 km, offers a fast, well-surfaced road where competitors can push their vehicles to the maximum. However, caution is required as the stage also includes several hazardous points, including narrow passages and large erosions. With two neutralisation zones for refuelling at 88 km and 268 km, managing fuel and vehicle performance will be critical for all teams.
“We chose to start in second place, and then we caught the car in front of us, but our system to overtake, for some reason, didn’t work as expected. Maybe he didn’t receive the signal. But overall, the track was really nice—fast in the beginning, and then after the neutralisation, it became a little more twisty with a lot of dust. It was a very dusty day, but again, the strategy is to keep building day by day. Still long days ahead of us, so yeah, great day, started with the win, always nice.”
Rally dos Sertões 2024 – Stage 2 Results & Classifications*
*Results reflect times after Stage 2, since Stage 1 was cancelled
Red Bull has established itself as the premiere supporter of extreme sports and athletes, and as such fits perfectly with TOYOTA GAZOO Racing's Dakar and W2RC efforts. The Austrian energy drink manufacturer has partnered with TGR over numerous years, and the involvement bore fruit when the team won a second Dakar title in January 2022, and a third in 2023.
SpeedMax is a CantuStore's private label, which is the largest omnichannel platform and leader in tire replacement market in Brazil. SpeedMax promotes maximum performance through high-performance tires that suit all types of vehicles, from passenger cars to trucks and tractors, as well as inner tubes and truck wheels.
Viana and Cariacica have all declared a local state of emergency according to local media
State authorities said that 95 people have been displaced in the municipalities of Alegre
One person died and two were rescued with injuries following a landslide in rural Santa Leopoldina
As much as 177.41mm of rain fell in 24 hours to 14 November in Santa Leopoldina
causing the Santa Maria da Vitória River to break its banks
Meanwhile flooding in Viana has damaged homes after the Formate river to broke its banks
Viana recorded 130.6mm of rain in 24 hours to 13 November
2019 and 167.6mm in 24 hours to 14 November
Cariacica has also declared a state of emergency due to the flooding
Some areas of the municipality were cut off and several people were rescued by helicopter
Heavy rain and flooding was also reported in the state capital Vitoria where several houses were damaged
and in Alegre where around 100 houses have been damaged by flooding
State Fire Service reported that 208.17mm of rain fell in 24 hours to 14 November in the municipality
os maiores acumulados de chuvas foram registrados em:
Os demais municípios registram acumulados inferiores a 40 mm. pic.twitter.com/imchz2qZNE
— GovernoES (@GovernoES) November 15, 2019
Os demais municípios registraram acumulados inferiores a 40mm
Desalojados: 91 pessoasDesabrigados: 04 pessoasFeridos: 06 pessoasÓbito: 01 pessoa
Caso veja sinais de trincas ou deslizamentos procure um abrigo seguro
— GovernoES (@GovernoES) November 14, 2019
temos o registro de 130,6mm de chuva em Viana
Outras informações estão disponíveis no site https://t.co/D85QF0OP9a
— GovernoES (@GovernoES) November 13, 2019
16h45(quinta) – Estado do Espírito Santo:Deslizamentos, enchente, pessoas soterradas e desalojadas… Esse é o cenário do Estado devido às fortes chuva nas últimas 24 h, em várias cidades capixabas. pic.twitter.com/DiJd4nUJIO
— Ciro Salla – ⓟ (@cirosalla) November 14, 2019
ATENÇÃO | O estado do Espírito Santo vive um dia de calamidade pela chuva: rios transbordaram, cidades inundadas, deslizamentos de terra, aulas suspensas e desalojados. Uma morte está confirmada em soterramento. pic.twitter.com/tobYtDCHQ1
— MetSul.com (@metsul) November 14, 2019
BrazilBreaking News
Panama – Floods Damage Over 100 Homes in Central Provinces
Colombia – More Flooding Hits Antioquia Department
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in representation of the Portuguese government
a decree declaring three days of national mourning for the death of Queen Elizabeth II
“Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland profoundly marked the second half of the 20th century and the first quarter of the 21st century
in this moment of a long and deep mourning for our oldest ally
the Government acquiesces to declare national mourning on the 18th
19th and 20th of September 2022,” the Council of Ministers announced in a prepared statement
The statement follows remarks by the Portuguese President
expressing his “most heartfelt and sincere condolences” on the death of the Queen
praising her as an “example to all of courage
stability and an unwavering sense of public service
as she was throughout her more than 96 years of life and 70 years of reign.”
“It is with deep sadness and immense sorrow that I learnt of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
I offer Your Majesty and the entire royal family
on behalf of the Portuguese people and on my own behalf
I offer my sincere condolences for the loss suffered,” the President of Portugal stated
on behalf of the British people and King Charles III
Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa also stated that he is “confident in the historic and unbreakable bonds of friendship that unite and will continue to unite Portugal and the United Kingdom
I renew my most heartfelt and sincere condolences,” wishing all the best to King Charles III
“For Portugal and for all Portuguese people
the visits that Queen Elizabeth II made to our country in 1957 and 1985 will remain in the memory of each of us with unquestionable affection and appreciation
I will not be able to forget the honor of meeting her when I travelled to London in 2016,” the President added
Praising Queen Elizabeth II for her “enormous sense of State” Portugal’s President expressed great admiration for the Her Majesty the Queen by remarking:
a great affection and admiration for Queen Elizabeth II
for her ability to understand with intelligence and lucidity and to adjust to such different worlds.”
President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa will attend the funeral ceremonies to be held on Monday
Portugal will be also represented by the Minister for Foreign Affairs João Gomes Cravinho
The relationship between Portugal and the United Kingdom dates to the Middle Ages
when in 1373 England signed the Anglo-Portuguese Alliance
considered the oldest alliance in the world
Born Princess Elizabeth Alexandra Mary
Queen Elizabeth II came to the throne in 1952
becoming the UK’s longest-serving monarch
led by the Archbishop of Canterbury the Dean of Westminster
the Queen will be buried within George VI Memorial Chapel in Windsor Castle
and the ashes of her sister Princess Margaret
Prince Philip’s coffin will be exhumed in the coming weeks and transported from the Royal Vault to George VI Memorial Chapel to lie next to her
will be among the heads of state traveling to London for the funeral
which will be attended by over 500 foreign dignitaries including
The British Embassy in Lisbon has announced that condolence books will be available daily at the British Embassy in Lisbon and at the Vice Consulate in Portimão, Algarve, from 10am to 4pm, until Friday, September 16, for those who wish to express their condolences following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Buckingham Palace has also made a condolence book available at www.royal.uk
Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022) visited Portugal twice.
The first visit took place in 1957, during the Estado Novo regime led By António Oliveira Salazar. The second visit was in 1985, after the establishment of democracy. The two visits marked two important moments in the history of Portugal and the United Kingdom. The relationship dates to the Middle Ages, when in 1373 England signed the Anglo-Portuguese Alliance, the oldest alliance in the world still in force.
In 1957, between February 18 and 20, Elizabeth II disembarked from the Royal Yacht moored in the Tagus River. The Portuguese state spared no expense, buying a Rolls Royce especially for the occasion. The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh were accommodated at Queluz National Palace, entertained at a banquet at the Palácio Nacional de Ajuda, and visited the Monasteries of Santa Maria, Alcobaça, Santa Maria da Vitória in Batalha, and Nazaré.
Salvador, Bahia (northeastern Brazil), has been identified as the epicenter of Human T-cell leukemia virus Human T-cell leukemia virus (HTLV) type 1 infection in the country. This study aims to estimate the rate of HTLV infection and the geographical distribution of this virus in this state.
All HTLV tests (chemiluminescence/ELISA assays/Western Blotting) performed in the Central Laboratory of Public Health of Bahia (LACEN) from 2004 to 2013 were included. Data was extracted from LACEN’s database using high volume extract, transformation and load throughput. Infection rate was expressed as the number of infected individuals per 100,000 inhabitants considering municipalities grouped in microregions and/or mesoregions as the unit of analysis.
HTLV infection is disseminated in the state of Bahia, with an overall moderate rate of infection. Further studies should be conducted to characterize the epidemiological and clinical profile of HTLV-infected individuals better and to propose effective prevention measures.
Volume 10 - 2019 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2019.01002
This article is part of the Research TopicHTLV-1: Addressing Unmet Research NeedsView all 16 articles
has been identified as the epicenter of Human T-cell leukemia virus Human T-cell leukemia virus (HTLV) type 1 infection in the country
This study aims to estimate the rate of HTLV infection and the geographical distribution of this virus in this state
Methods: All HTLV tests (chemiluminescence/ELISA assays/Western Blotting) performed in the Central Laboratory of Public Health of Bahia (LACEN) from 2004 to 2013 were included
Data was extracted from LACEN’s database using high volume extract
Infection rate was expressed as the number of infected individuals per 100,000 inhabitants considering municipalities grouped in microregions and/or mesoregions as the unit of analysis
Results: A total of 233,876 individuals were evaluated
Individuals were from 394 out of 417 municipalities of Bahia (94.5%)
HTLV chemiluminescence/ELISA assay was found to be reactive for 3,138 individuals from whom 2,323 had WB results (1,978 positives
58 (2.9%) for HTLV-2 and 107 (5.4%) were for both HTLV-1 and HTLV-2
The cumulative mean rate of HTLV-positive cases in Bahia was 14.4 per 100,000 inhabitants
Three microregions presented rates >20 HTLV-positive cases/100,000 inhabitants: Barreiras (24.83 cases per 100,000 inhabitants)
Salvador (22.90 cases per 100,000 inhabitants)
and Ilhéus-Itabuna (22.60 cases per 100,000 inhabitants)
Conclusion: HTLV infection is disseminated in the state of Bahia
with an overall moderate rate of infection
Further studies should be conducted to characterize the epidemiological and clinical profile of HTLV-infected individuals better and to propose effective prevention measures
The present study aimed to estimate the seroprevalence and geographical distribution of HTLV infection in the state of Bahia over a 10-year period (2004–2013)
All available serological tests for HTLV- 1/2 were evaluated using the database of the Bahia state public health reference laboratory
which tests blood samples from all municipalities in the state
The Institutional Review Board (IRB) for Human Research at the Gonçalo Moniz Institute of the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Salvador
Brazil) provided ethical approval to conduct this study (CAAE number 22478813.7.0000.0040)
Illustration of the state of Bahia’s seven mesoregions and 32 microregions
grouped by IBGE to more accurately reflect economic and social similarities among this state’s municipalities
A retrospective ecological study was conducted using data obtained from the Central Laboratory of Public Health of Bahia (LACEN-BA)
which is responsible for infectious disease surveillance throughout the state via laboratory analysis
The target population was comprised mainly of blood donors
pregnant women and individuals exhibiting symptoms of infectious disease
prenatal physicians or clinicians in the public health system
All serological tests for HTLV were included among the 32 Bahia microregions from 2004 to 2013
testing was carried out by ELISA using the Murex HTLV-1/2 immunoassay (DiaSorin S.p.A.
from 2009 to 2010 using the anti-HTLV-1/2 Sym Solution kit (Symbiosis Diagnostica LTDA
the CLIA chemiluminescence assay (Architect rHTLV-1/2
Singapore) was used throughout the study period for confirmation
HTLV-negative samples were defined as lack of reactivity to HTLV-specific proteins; HTLV-1-positive samples were defined as reactive to GAG (p19 with or without p24) and two ENV (GD21 and rgp46-I) proteins; HTLV-2-positive samples were those reactive to GAG (p24 with or without p19) and two ENV (GD21 and rgp46-II) proteins; HTLV seropositive samples were defined as samples reactive to GAG (p19 and p24) and ENV (GD21)
The samples that indicated co-infection of HTLV -1/2 demonstrated reactivity for specific markers of both HTLV-I and HTLV-II: GD21
Samples were considered indeterminate when no specific bands for HTLV-I
All serological tests for HTLV that lacked confirmatory results were excluded
Spatial distribution maps based on moving averages were constructed by applying 3-year intervals to data from 2004 to 2013
This method was also used to minimize the effects of random fluctuation for a time-series of infection rates calculated for rare events
Annual incidence rates were calculated for each of the 32 micro-regions and the entire state using standardized methods
To assess the relative risk of HTLV in each microregion
maps were constructed using the moving average for the first 3-year rate in Bahia as the denominator assuming no changes in time and space
A total of 249,869 serologies for HTLV were performed during the studied period. Due to multiplicity (i.e., the presence of multiple serological test results in the database for a given individual), 15,993 samples were excluded (Figure 2)
The final sample comprised 233,876 serological tests from unique individuals
the 2,323 samples submitted to Western blotting produced 1,978 positive (85.2%) 63 negative (2.7%) and 282 (12.1%) indeterminate results
815 samples were not submitted to Western Blot due to a lack of reagents at some points during the study period
Assuming that 85.2% of these 815 samples Blot would have been HTLV positive
it follows that the overall prevalence of HTLV would have been 1.18%
Standards for reporting of diagnostic accuracy studies (STARD) flowchart illustration of study design
Boxes with dotted lines indicate samples excluded from the study
An overall increase in the number of positive cases was observed in all microregions
as evidenced by the first 5 years of study (2004–2008) in which 4.3 cases of HTLV per 100,000 inhabitants was found
compared to 10.5 cases per 100,000 inhabitants during the final period (2009–2013)
Spatiotemporal distribution of HTLV positivity in the State of Bahia from 2004 to 2013
calculated using 3-year moving averages considering the state’s microregions as units of analysis
The cumulative mean rate of HTLV-positive cases in Bahia was 14.4 per 100,000 inhabitants. Considering the grouping of HTLV-positive samples into microregions (Figure 4)
three demonstrated rates above 20 HTLV-positive cases per 100,000 inhabitants: Barreiras (24.83 cases per 100,000 inhabitants)
Elevated rates of HTLV infection ranging from 8.96 to 19.30 cases per 100,000 inhabitants were also seen in nine other microregions
a homogenous distribution of HTLV positivity was observed
No information was retrieved from two microregions (Santa Maria da Vitória and Jeremoabo)
and HTLV-1/2 positivity in the State of Bahia from 2004 to 2013
considering microregions as the unit of analysis
The 12 microregions with the highest rates of HTLV positivity per 100,000 inhabitants are highlighted
in addition to the top five according to each respective HTLV type
The microregions of Barreiras, Salvador and Porto Seguro were all notable for high rates of HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 infection, as well as HTLV-1/2 coinfection. HTLV-1 was also predominant in Ihéus-Itabuna and Itapetinga microregions. Higher rates of HTLV-2 infection were also found in the Livramento do Brumado and Juazeiro microregions. HTLV-1/2 coinfection was most prevalent in the Entre Rios and Valença microregions (Figure 4)
The median age of the studied population was 31 years (interquartile range: 25–39 years) and the female:male ratio was 8:1. The median age of HTLV-infected persons was 46 years (IQR: 33–59 years), and 75% were women. Overall, our analysis of HTLV-positivity according to age and sex showed much higher frequencies in individuals aged 31 years or older for both males (85.7%) and females (79.3%) (Figure 5)
Our stratified age analysis identified 42 positive individuals aged 15 years or younger from all of the mesoregions
The highest frequency of this age group was found in Nordeste Baiano
Distribution of HTLV-positive cases throughout the mesoregions of the State of Bahia
stratified according to sex and age (2004–2013)
higher frequencies of positive cases were observed among females aged 15–30 years as compared to males
a higher frequency of positive cases among males aged >30 years was found in the Vale do São Francisco da Bahia mesoregion
no information on the number of HTLV-infected individuals in the State of Bahia (the fourth-most populous in Brazil)
nor the geographical distribution of these individuals
The present results demonstrate that HTLV infection is indeed widespread throughout the state
with an overall rate of 14.4 per 100,000 inhabitants
followed by HTLV-1/HTLV-2 coinfection (5.4%) and HTLV-2 (2.9%)
The Ilhéus-Itabuna microregion is located around the southern coastal region of Bahia
having a humid tropical climate with areas of Atlantic Forest
This regional center is home to important commercial
The economic importance of this region grew during the golden era of cocoa production
the economy is based on tourism and other activities related to the seaport
the Jacobina microregion has a tropical climate with a dry season
rivers and waterfalls favor ecological tourism
to the best of our knowledge no previous studies reported this area being endemic to HTLV infection
We cannot exclude the possibility that these microregions received samples from surrounding areas
Barreiras is the most important municipality located in the microregion
This microregion has a tropical climate and the predominant vegetation is the arboreal cerrado
The regional economy is mainly based on agribusiness
and migrants from all over Brazil moved here in the 1970s and 1980s
It is possible that HTLV-1/2 coinfection found in Bahia may result from the introduction of drug users infected with HTLV-2 into areas in which HTLV-1 is already prevalent
a progressive increase in the incidence of HTLV infection was observed throughout the study period
This is likely due to an expansion in the number of municipal primary health clinics provided by the federal Family Health Program
as well as increases in testing and counseling centers (aimed primarily at sexually transmitted diseases) in the countryside of the state
awareness surrounding HTLV infection increased during the study period and HTLV was included on the list of compulsory disease notifications for the state of Bahia in 2011
It is also possible that compulsory serological HTLV screening for pregnant women
contributed to the higher proportion of women detected in this age range
In the present study the HTLV infection was observed in 42 individuals under 15 years
indicating that in addition to sexual transmission
the vertical route may be an important route
Self-reported ethnicity/color of regional populations in the state of Bahia according to the Brazilian Institute of Statistics and Geography 2010 census
With respect to the representative map of individual identifying as “black,” bars represent the number of quilombola communities located in each mesoregion of the state (total number = 656)
the present study is unable to offer any insight into virus phylogeny
as the retrospective nature of this investigation precluded the performance of molecular analysis to accurately assess results considered indeterminate by Western Blot
the present study serves to highlight previously unreported data regarding clusters of HTLV infection throughout the state of Bahia
which is considered to be the Brazilian state with the highest HTLV infection rate
HTLV infection cannot be considered as restricted to the area of Salvador
as the data reported herein identified new endemic areas
Considering the overall prevalence of HTLV in Bahia to be 0.84% (1,978/233,876)
it follows that ∼130,000 individuals would be infected with HTLV
it is important to note that this number could be underestimated
since 26% of the HTLV reactive samples were not submitted to Western blotting
the overall prevalence would increase to 1.18%
Further studies are needed to better describe the epidemiological profile of the infected population and to reinforce public policies designed to prevent HTLV transmission
As the present study has a retrospective design
evaluating HTLV serologies performed in a 10 years-period in the Public Health Laboratory of Bahia
the Institutional Research Board of Fiocruz approved a study
dispensing the signing of written informed consent
All authors read and approved the final version of the manuscript
This work was supported by the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico-CNPq)
the National Foundation for the Development of Higher Education (Fundação Nacional para o Desenvolvimento do Ensino Superior-FUNDADESP)
and the Foundation for Research Support of the State of Bahia (Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado da Bahia-FAPESB)
This study was financed in part by the Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior – Brasil (CAPES) – Finance Code 001
The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest
Walter for providing English language revision and manuscript copyediting assistance
Graham Taylor for his valuable suggestions
Globin haplotypes of human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I-infected individuals in Salvador
suggest a post-Columbian African origin of this virus
Spread and diversity of human populations in Bahia
Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 infection among pregnant women in northeastern Brazil
Dried blood spot testing for the antenatal screening of HTLV
toxoplasmosis and hepatitis B and C: prevalence
Severe and Norwegian scabies are strongly associated with retroviral (HIV-1/HTLV-1) infection in Bahia
Infecção pelo HTLV-I/II no Estado da Bahia
Marines stationed in a hyperendemic area: evidence for female-to-male sexual transmission
Discovery of a new human T-cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV-3) in Central Africa
Castro-Lima Vargens
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca of human T cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) infected individuals is associated with high levels of HTLV-1 proviral load
Heterogeneous geographic distribution of human T-cell lymphotropic viruses I and II (HTLV-I/II): serological screening prevalence rates in blood donors from large urban areas in Brazil
HTLV-I in the general population of Salvador
Brazil: a city with African ethnic and sociodemographic characteristics
HTLV-I in Northeast Brazil: differences for male and female injecting drug users
Higher human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 subtype C proviral loads are associated with bronchiectasis in indigenous australians: results of a case-control study
Selectivity of human T lymphotropic virus type-1 (HTLV-1) and HTLV-2 infection among different populations in Brazil
Distribution of human T-lymphotropic virus type I among blood donors: a nationwide Brazilian study
doi: 10.1046/j.1537-2995.1997.37297203532.x
Epidemiological Aspects and World Distribution of HTLV-1 Infection
Antibodies to human T-lymphotropic virus type-I in patients with tropical spastic paraparesis
Tuberculosis incidence in a cohort of individuals infected with human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) in Salvador
Human T lymphotropic virus type II (HTLV-II): epidemiology
Adult T-cell leukemia: antigen in an ATL cell line and detection of antibodies to the antigen in human sera
The prevalence of human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 in the general population is unknown
High prevalence of bronchiectasis is linked to HTLV-1-associated inflammatory disease
Identification of human T cell lymphotropic virus type IIa infection in the Kayapo
A new subtype of human T-cell leukemia virus (HTLV-II) associated with a T-cell variant of hairy cell leukemia
Infective dermatitis of Jamaican children: a marker for HTLV-I infection
Phylogenetic and molecular analysis of HTLV-1 isolates from a medium sized town in northern of Brazil: tracing a common origin of the virus from the most endemic city in the country
Increased risk of tuberculosis with human T-lymphotropic virus-1 infection: a case-control study
HTLV-1 in pregnant women from the Southern Bahia
Brazil: a neglected condition despite the high prevalence
HTLV-I uveitis: a distinct clinical entity caused by HTLV-I
A case-control study of HTLV-infection among blood donors in Salvador
Brazil - associated risk factors and trend towards declining prevalence
Revista Brasileira de Hematologia e Hemoterapia 28
Sexual transmission of human T-lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I)
Antibodies to Strongyloides stercoralis in healthy Jamaican carriers of HTLV-1
HTLV-1 is predominantly sexually transmitted in Salvador
the city with the highest HTLV-1 prevalence in Brazil
CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar
Detection and isolation of type C retrovirus particles from fresh and cultured lymphocytes of a patient with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
HTLV type 1 molecular study in Brazilian villages with African characteristics giving support to the post-Columbian introduction hypothesis
HTLV-1 infection is frequent among out-patients with pulmonary tuberculosis in northern Lima
Human T-lymphotropic virus 1: recent knowledge about an ancient infection
Emergence of unique primate T-lymphotropic viruses among central African bushmeat hunters
Increased proviral load in HTLV-1-infected patients with rheumatoid arthritis or connective tissue disease
Galvão-Castro B and Grassi MFR (2019) Evidence of New Endemic Clusters of Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus (HTLV) Infection in Bahia
Copyright © 2019 Pereira, Almeida, Santos, Carreiro, Regis-Silva, Galvão-Castro and Grassi. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY)
distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted
provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited
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*Correspondence: Maria Fernanda Rios Grassi, ZmVybmFuZGEuZ3Jhc3NpQGZpb2NydXouYnI=; bWZyZ3Jhc3NpQGdtYWlsLmNvbQ==
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Bogotá, Colombia is in the throes of a water crisis
or until there is enough rainfall to course correct
in which the entire city nearly ran out of water after a rare drought
More cities will likely face these kinds of shortages as climate change
deforestation and ecosystems degradation increasingly threaten the natural systems that maintain water supplies
restoring and sustainably managing forests within their watersheds
cities can improve water quality and quantity in a cost-effective way
And they can make water sources more resilient to a changing climate
Climate change continues to raise global temperatures and cause unpredictable weather patterns
As climates become drier and rainfall becomes more erratic
water sources are less able to maintain a consistent supply and reliably replenish
Deforestation around watersheds is also a major driver of water insecurity. Forests support and improve water supplies in a few key ways:
equivalent to ten football fields per minute
As the threat of water shortages continues to spread, natural infrastructure can play a crucial role in improving water security for cities around the world
There is a strong economic case for natural infrastructure, too. WRI studied the economic and water benefits of combining natural and traditional infrastructure in five cities across Brazil as well as in Bogotá
Every analysis showed that natural infrastructure can yield significant water benefits for cities while also producing cost savings for water utilities
the water utility could save approximately $45 million over 30 years by investing $5.3 million upfront in nature-based solutions such as ecosystem restoration
these savings come from reducing sedimentation and nutrients in water
This can reduce costs from “dredging” to remove sediments and from wear and tear on traditional infrastructure
It can also lower water treatment costs through reducing the need for chemical products and decreasing the amount of energy used to pump and distribute water across a plant for treatment
While natural infrastructure can certainly benefit city water supplies
the right approach will vary from place to place
Four cities working with WRI’s Cities4Forests initiative show the possibilities:
While the latest water crisis in Colombia is new, the need for better water infrastructure is not. Recent research from WRI Colombia
Conservation International Colombia and Bogotá’s water utility showed that natural infrastructure could play an important role in diversifying the city’s water sources
saving money for the local water utility and ultimately improving water security for the city
There are significant opportunities for natural infrastructure in the city’s nearby páramos
These include ecosystem restoration and “silvopastoral” systems
which combine tree growth and livestock production on the same land
Implementing such solutions across just 2% of the Bogotá river’s upper basin
the second largest water source for the city
would help reduce the presence of sediment in the water and save the local utility money on treatment
Improvements to water quality would also make the Bogotá river basin a more reliable water source
allowing the city to diversify its water supply
This would make Bogotá less reliant on the Chingaza reservoir system and more resilient to drought and other threats
And because trees can intercept and slow rainfall as it lands
reforestation efforts can also reduce flood risks
Following this analysis, Espírito Santo adopted a law to prioritize restoration in many of these upstream areas
The state also replicated the study for other watersheds
In early 2023, the Nairobi Rivers Commission launched a plan to rejuvenate and restore the Nairobi river
The commission and its partners are currently working to identify priority areas for restoration and find ways to integrate nature-based solutions
The project will also support Kenya’s goal to grow 15 billion trees by 2032
In addition to water quality efforts, priority areas for restoration are being identified to reduce flood risk in Nairobi. This is also an urgent issue, as devastating floods in Kenya have recently claimed the lives of over 200 people and displaced almost a quarter of a million more
TheCityFix Labs, an initiative by Cities4Forests and WRI India, is supporting two local projects to scale up their nature-based solutions that can address these interconnected issues
is using constructed wetlands to manage wastewater
These use wetland plants and soil to mimic a natural wetland
which captures stormwater and creates micro-habitat for plants and birds
created a sustainable drainage system that cleans wastewater naturally using vegetation and then filters it into engineered soil
allowing the water to soak into the ground more effectively
This approach enables groundwater recharge with no negative environmental effects
costs significantly less than other recharge systems
and can easily be used across the city since it does not require large areas of land
Mexico City and Cape Town may be among the most prominent examples of water insecurity in recent memory
population growth and ecosystem degradation are likely to push many others into the same situation
Cities facing current or future water shortages can learn from those already implementing natural infrastructure to improve water security and prevent further land degradation
And they can take immediate steps to better integrate nature-based solutions into urban planning and climate action
Cities do not need to choose between water security and nature
Nairobi and Delhi can go from being an exception to being some of the first in a new norm
This article originally appeared on WRI’s Insights.
Sadof Alexander is Communications Manager for Cities4Forests with WRI Ross Center for Sustainable Cities
Laura Bulbena Janer is Manager for Cities4Forests with WRI Colombia
The World Heritage Centre is at the forefront of the international community’s efforts to protect and preserve
World Heritage partnerships for conservation
Ensuring that World Heritage sites sustain their outstanding universal value is an increasingly challenging mission in today’s complex world
where sites are vulnerable to the effects of uncontrolled urban development
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Take advantage of the search to browse through the World Heritage Centre information
The Monastery of the Dominicans of Batalha was built to commemorate the victory of the Portuguese over the Castilians at the battle of Aljubarrota in 1385
It was to be the Portuguese monarchy's main building project for the next two centuries
Édifié pour commémorer la victoire des Portugais sur les Castillans à la bataille d'Aljubarrota en 1385
le monastère des dominicains de Batalha fut pendant deux siècles le grand chantier de la monarchie portugaise où se développa un style gothique national original
شكّل دير الرهبان الدومينيكيين في بطليوس الذي شيّد احتفاء بذكرى انتصار البرتغاليين على القشطاليين في معركة الجبروت عام 1385 ورشة كبرى أقامتها المملكة البرتغالية على مدى قرنين وتطور فيها طراز قوطي وطني فريد شديد التأثر بالفن المانويلي، كما يظهر في الرواق الملكي الذي يُعتبر تحفة حقيقية
这座多明各会的巴塔利亚修道院是为了纪念1385年葡萄牙王国在阿尔儒巴罗塔战役中战胜卡斯提尔王国而建立的。在后来的两个多世纪中,葡萄牙王室一直把修建这座修道院当作最重要的建设工程之一。巴塔利亚修道院展示出了高度原创和有葡萄牙特色的哥特式风格,整个建筑明显受到曼奴埃尔式风格的深刻影响,这一点从皇家修道院这一建筑杰作中可以很清楚地看出来。
Доминиканский монастырь Баталья был сооружен в память о победе португальцев над кастильцами в 1385 г
Ему суждено было стать главным объектом строительства португальских королей в следующие два столетия
Здесь проявилась весьма специфичная национальная разновидность готики
возникшая под сильным влиянием стиля мануэлино
что демонстрирует такой шедевр как Королевский клостер
El monasterio dominico de Batalha fue erigido para conmemorar la victoria de los portugueses sobre los castellanos en la batalla de Aljubarrota (1385)
que fue la principal empresa arquitectónica de los monarcas portugueses durante dos siglos
dio nacimiento a un estilo gótico nacional hondamente influido por el arte manuelino
Constructed in fulfilment of a vow by King João to commemorate the victory over the Castilians at Aljubarrota (15 August 1385)
The greater part of the monumental complex dates from the reign of João I (1385-1433)
and the funeral chapel of the founder were constructed
The design has been attributed to the English architect Master Huguet
The chapel's floor plan consists of an octagonal space inserted in a square
creating two separate volumes that combine most harmoniously
The ceiling consists of an eight-point star-shaped lantern
The most dramatic feature is to be found in the centre of the chapel: the enormous medieval tomb of Dom João I and his wife
Bays in the chapel walls contain the tombs of their sons
The main entrance of the church is through the porch on the west facade
On both sides of this portal are sculptures of the twelve apostles standing on consoles
In the centre is a high relief statue of Christ in Majesty surrounded by the Evangelists
framed by six covings decorated with sculptures of biblical kings and queens
prophets and angels holding musical instruments from the Middle Ages
This great profusion of sculptures is completed by the crowning of the Virgin Mary
As a monument charged with a symbolic value from its foundation
the great workshop of the Portuguese monarchy
It is not surprising that the most characteristic features of a national art would have been determined there
during both the Gothic and the Renaissance periods
Batalha is the conservatory of several privileged expressions of Portuguese art: the sober architectural style of the end of the 14th century
renders most impressive; the exuberant aesthetic of the capelas imperfeitas; the flamboyant arcades embroidered in a lace-work of stone: the Manueline Baroque even more perceptible in the openwork decor of the tracery of the arcades of the royal cloister than on the immense portal attributed to Mateus Fernandes the Elder; and finally
architect of the loggia constructed under João III (1521-1557)
Criterion (i): The Dominican Monastery of Batalha is one of the absolute masterpieces of Gothic art
Criterion (ii): The Monastery of Batalha was
an important workshop of the Portuguese monarchy
The most characteristic features of a national art were determined here
both during the Gothic and the Renaissance periods
Within the boundaries of the 0,98 ha property are located all the necessary elements to express the Outstanding Universal Value of the Monastery of Batalha
To reduce the traffic in the old main road (EN1) which crossed the site’s buffer zone
a new road (A14) was built outside the property and a curtain of trees was planted to reduce possible pollution impacts on the monument
The Monastery of Batalha preserves its authenticity by maintaining its original plans
materials and social and religious significance
The property’s most relevant attributes have been preserved and even reinforced as far as quality is concerned
Conservation and restoration of all stained glass windows and mural paintings in the Royal Cloister and in the Sacristy have been carried out according to the Nara Document on Authenticity
the Escola Nacional de Artes e Ofícios da Batalha (School of Arts and Crafts) has been supllying skilled workers both for the conservation and restoration of stone elements and stained glass windows
Ecclesiastical authorities have contributed to the preservation and enhancement of this property
by using the church for religious ceremonies
the Chapter House has a permanent guard of honour and is lit by a lamp symbolizing the homeland flame in homage to the Unknown Soldier protected by the mutilated “Christ of the Trenches”
The Monastery of Batalha was classified as a national monument by a Decree published in the government Journal no
In order to ensure enforcement of the Law establishing the bases for the policy and system of rules for protection and enhancement of cultural heritage (Law no
140 of 15 June 2009 established the legal framework for studies
works or interventions upon classified cultural assets
the need for a previous and systematic assessment
monitoring and weighing of any works that are likely to affect the site’s integrity so as to avoid any disfigurement
This is ensured by appropriate and strict planning
methodologies and resources to be used for implementation of works on cultural properties
there is a responsible management policy that has focused on environmental solutions and on maintaining open dialogue and building partnerships with
the municipality so as to overcome the negative effects of undue use of the monument’s surrounding area
buffer zones are considered special protection zones benefitting from adequate restrictions for the protection and enhancement of cultural properties
To preserve the authenticity and integrity of the whole monumental complex within a work plan involving the local community is the key management goal
It also takes into account UNESCO’s recommendations in the State of Conservation Report from 1990
namely conservation measures that have been taken to solve the problem of distortion of the lead work and broken panes in the stained-glass windows
All the interventions that have been implemented or are foreseen comply with current legislation
as well as with strict technical and scientific criteria
There is a special focus on the treatment and rehabilitation of the area surrounding the monument
as these works will be ensured by local organisations involving both the municipality and the local community
Management of this complex is ensured by the decentralized services of the Directorate General for Cultural Heritage (DGPC)
the central administration department responsible for cultural heritage
enhancement and safeguarding measures are ensured by DGPC that is responsible for drawing up an annual programme and implementing it so as to secure the future of the monument
an interpretation centre has been established
Today visitors have access to more areas and to new information that will ensure a better and more integrated knowledge of the World Heritage property
Our strategic planning and organization reflect our efforts to turn sustainability challenges into transformational opportunities
We aim to operate responsibly and enhance positive impacts for people
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The water sources used in our mining operations include: underground
The ore used to produce steel is found in rocks mixed with other elements
Trucks transport the mined ore from the mine to the beneficiation plants
3 – Control of particulates and Storage
An aqueous solution of polymers is sprayed for dust control
like washing parts and spraying roads and piles
and reclaimers guide it onto conveyor belts
railcars are sealed with an aqueous polymer solution to prevent the material from becoming airborne
The ore is conveyed to hoppers and into railcars bound for the port
ore is unloaded and stockpiled in storage yards. In the yard, ores are stored and/or transported to the ships through reclaimers and conveyor belts.
Salobo Dam (Vale Brazil): tailings dams are the main water recipients in mining operations
Total water withdrawal (in millions of m³) in 2022
Thickeners are used for solid-liquid separation in mineral processing
with the separated water returning to the process
A corporate policy that sets out Vale’s stance and the principles guiding our actions
A technical standard providing guidelines on water resource and effluent management at Vale
A tool outlining four key process responsibilities: Responsible
2 - Water monitoring and quality control
3 - Engaging with stakeholders in our host watersheds
Water stress is measured based on the following variables:
Water stress levels in our host watersheds
The dates displayed for an article provide information on when various publication milestones were reached at the journal that has published the article
activities on preceding journals at which the article was previously under consideration are not shown (for instance submission
Environmental ResearchCitation Excerpt :Microplastic pollution was more studied in the mangroves of China
but studies remain quite rare (Deng et al.
the investigation of this pollution is even scarce: in chronological order
studies were carried out in Singapore (Nor and Obbard
The contamination occurred in all these investigated mangrove soils
ranging from some particles - 20 items kg−1 in Indonesia (Cordova et al.
2021) to thousands of particles – 5,738 items kg−1 in southern China (Zhou et al.
All content on this site: Copyright © 2025 Elsevier B.V.
Aerial view of a settlement in the middle of the Atlantic rainforest
Freshwater goes a long way from the rural highlands of Espírito Santo to homes and businesses in Vitória metropolitan area -- which concentrates more than 50% of the southeastern state population
an increasingly high amount of sediments and pesticides flowed down as well
“This is an important effect of harmful land-use patterns in the mountain farms,” explains Gunars Platais
an environmental specialist at the World Bank
Fortunately these practices can be changed
at a much lower cost than an upgrade of the water treatment system
By rewarding farmers who engage in environmentally friendly practices
All of these measures reduce river pollution
“If we manage to curb sediment yield by 0.5%
the state government will be able to save at least BRL1,000,000 (US$ 500,000) in water treatment”
with other specialists from the World Bank and the government of Espírito Santo
carry out a project that pays ranchers an annual
variable amount – which enables them to invest in sustainable activities
and establish specific goals (and payments) for each of the farmers
build fences that keep the livestock from destroying the native trees
The initiative also encourages them to keep up with the good practices down the line
ranchers must return the money to the state government
the initiative has already attracted around 90 small farmers
Another 210 are expected to opt-in as the project evolves.
“I believe many of my neighbors will take an interest because 45% of our village is still covered by the Atlantic Rainforest,” says coffee farmer César Krohling
Around 100 of Krohling’s 217-acre ranch are located in a rainforest area that his German great grandfather started preserving 133 years ago
This endeavor is now rewarded with an annual payment of BRL7,000 (US$3,500) a year
the farmer is committed to recovering another acre of rainforest land
and will get BRL2,000 (US$1,000) for the task
to be accomplished three years from now.
but at least more people are putting a value on our natural resources,” says Krohling
The work that is currently being carried out in Espírito Santo follows a model globally known as Payment for Environmental (or Ecosystem) Services (PES)
“deliver” environmental services such as providing clean water
sequestering greenhouse gas emissions and offering habitat for countless species
the PES system also acknowledges those who keep the ‘services’ running properly,” Sossai explains
is keeping the model attractive as years pass
“That’s why it is important to offer both short-term and long-term payments
as well as technical assistance to ensure farmers increase their productivity and incomes without harming the environment,” Platais adds
Espírito Santo is among the few states that have experimented with this system so far
the model has been implemented in Costa Rica and Nicaragua
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where the user can combine data and download tables and maps
the study presents references in the country at three levels: Expanded Areas
Intermediate and Immediate Urban Articulate Areas
The classification of Vitória as a metropolis has led to concentration of the entire state of Espírito Santo under its capital
which encompassed in 2013 all the intermediate areas of Espírito Santo as far as Teixeira de Freitas
has had its influence reduced to within state limits
“Now that Vitória has reached the status of a metropolis
one can say Rio de Janeiro has lost relevance in the regional scenario in the current edition of this study," says Maria Monica O’Neill
Rio de Janeiro now exerts lower influence on other two states: in Bahia
the Teixeira de Freitas area is now under the influence of Salvador (BA)
the area of Juiz de Fora is now under the influence of Belo Horizonte
New metropolises also influenced the urban-regional configuration
Florianópolis and Campinas (SP) are now classified as metropolises according to Regic 2018 and have reconfigured the urban-regional scenario that encompasses neighboring regions
the three capitals now have areas of coverage that are close to the territory configuration of their respective states
one of the regional capitals identified in the study
also faced significant decrease in relevance from 2013 to 2021
The loss was due to the change in association from the intermediate area of Barra do Garças (MT) to Goiânia
The Central West is also marked by a development axis formed by Brasília
the highlight is the leading position of Manaus in this Major Region
since Tefé (AM) has fallen in terms of regional prominence thus leading to an increase of influence exerted by Manaus on the state
The capital can cover major distances between cities at different scales
Tabatinga (AM) despite being more than one thousand kilometers far from it
also exerts influence on the entire state of Roraima
The other regional capital mentioned in the publication was Porto Velho
The capital of Rondônia has a leading position in the southern area of the North Region
with influences that go past Rondônia and reach the south of Amazonas
the west of Mato Grosso and the state of Acre
Belem engulfs almost all of Pará and the entire state of Amapá
the capital Palmas is a wide intermediate area
whereas most of the other cities were integrated to Goiânia
Fortaleza went through a considerable change
having lost Mossoró (RN) and Pau dos Ferros (RN) for Recife
but accounting for the major influence on Quixadá (CE)
Recife expanded its level of influence from 2013 to 2021 and is a leading city of the northern (Rio Grande do Norte) and southern (Sergipe) boundaries of its territory
Salvador kept its spatial coverage relatively leveled off
with some changes taking place in the west of Bahia
having reduced its influence on Santa Maria da Vitória (BA)
but exerting influence on Luís Eduardo Magalhães (BA) and on some cities in Tocantins
Study identifies articulate flows of the urban network
The Urban-Regional Division of Brazil provides an overall view of the country based on urban network flows
Each municipality belongs to a single region
the borders of which are not necessarily restricted to state divisions
The questionnaire was administered in 5,503 of the 5,568 municipalities in the country
Another important characteristic of this division is the identification of a leading city for each region
The study delimitates urban articulate regions at three levels of reference
whose areas are based on a network-like structure
where territory management centers and flows define the associations and the regional arrangement
The study subdivided the 17 extended areas (15 metropolises and two regional capitals) and 140 intermediate areas that are formed by cities with medium levels of centrality and with a population
number of cities and other indexes that show diversity as a distinguishing feature of Brazil
connections that show accessibility and capacity to fulfill demands that are less complex and more limited in coverage
A total of 539 subcenters surrounding the immediate areas were also identified
They complement the latter in provision of goods and services and in local management functions
© 2018 IBGE - Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística
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by Russell Yuristy.Justin Wonnacott/Supplied
Credo: Twenty (Synagogue of Santa Maria La Blanca
by Jennifer Dickson.Justin Wonnacott/Supplied
This article was published more than 4 years ago
you don’t necessarily get much access to local art
Since it opened in its much expanded Daly Avenue headquarters in 2018
the Ottawa Art Gallery is working its way through something of a backlog of deserving artists
Its current offerings include two real veterans: Russell Yuristy and Jennifer Dickson are both octogenarians who live in Ottawa
And that is about all they have in common as artists
which makes for an invigorating visit to the gallery’s fourth floor
Chief curator Catherine Sinclair has mounted a mini-retrospective devoted to Yuristy
although I did recognize some of his more public work
his interest in nature and his Prairie populism morphed into a project building rough-hewn playground equipment in the shape of animals
moose and elephants showed up in several Canadian cities before they fell victim to increasingly stringent regulations governing playground safety
The gallery has rebuilt an elephant slide to contemporary standards – it
But what is interesting for the adult visitor is to be reminded how the powerful school of abstraction associated with the Emma Lake Artists Workshops run by the University of Saskatchewan frustrated some artists to the point of folk realism
Yuristy was a close friend of the popular sculptor and ceramicist Joe Fafard
whose two small figures of his colleague are included here
Fafard first shows Yuristy as a depressed abstractionist staring at the ground
and then depicts him as a liberated realist after both Saskatchewan artists were introduced to the pop style known as California Funk
The show also features Yuristy’s own ceramic sculptures of horses and sleighs
his fantastical drawings of animal-like machines and his narrative paintings about his rural boyhood
There is also a room full of bright paintings of fish and animals dating to the 1980s
notable for the way they combine zoological accuracy with a joyous approach to colour and scale
but the vibrancy of Yuristy’s idiosyncratic vision is undimmed
long known for her precise yet highly romantic views of landscapes
It examines links between the three Abrahamic religions – Judaism
Christianity and Islam – through their architecture
Dickson sets up trios of her lush and delicate photographs of churches
she uncovers interiors made physically intense by the soaring of vaults
and the chiaroscuro of light filtered through metal grills or stained glass
A few of these sanctuaries are ruins; others are historical sites; some are in use to this day
Their aestheticized images are free of any overt political intent
yet the multicultural implications can’t be avoided
The overall effect is of poignant triumph as a continuous human spirituality is achieved again and again through space and place
Russell Yuristy: The Inside of Elephants and All Kinds of Things
continues at the Ottawa Art Gallery to Feb
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São Miguel’s dark sand beaches offer the opportunity to wallow in hot springs
blue-flag recognised Praia de Porto Pim is ideal for families and a hike will often reveal naturally carved basalt pools that promise a peaceful plunge regardless of the Atlantic’s powerful waves
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Be sure to save time to visit the Miradouro (viewpoint) to take photos of this idyllic bay
Accessible by seasonal boat from the village of Vila Franca do Campo (book ahead online to save time)
this islet — nearly perfectly circular in shape — is the crater of an extinct submerged volcano
This unusual nature reserve has a small beach
and visitors can swim and snorkel in the natural pool or walk the tiny trail
taking in the impressive views back towards São Miguel
Café N Family-friendly N — not for young children
Fort de San Sebastian on Faial island (Getty Images)3
an archway of the island’s fortress links Porto Pim beach with the plethora of cafés and bars in Horta
Admire the sheltered sandy bay from Monte da Guia
A firm favourite with families for its central location and calm waters
the latter are also a draw for paddleboarders
Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara (Getty Images)4
São MiguelSurfers of all levels flock to ride the swell at one of the most extensive stretches of black sand across the nine volcanic islands
the highly rated surf school here is a great place to take lessons
A complete collection of public facilities — beach bars
seasonal lifeguards and parking — make it a go-to on the north coast of São Miguel
is perched on the cliffs overlooking the beach
São MiguelDig your feet far enough into the sand here and you’ll feel your toes warmed by the hydrothermal vents below
The hot springs of São Miguel are a real treat — especially in the shoulder seasons
when the few extra degrees bring welcome warmth to bathing conditions
Located in the small village of Ribeira Quente — which seemingly spills out from the mountains into the ocean thanks to an ancient lava flow — the drive here is impressive
rough waves and deep waters make the petite Praia dos Moinhos a striking place to enjoy some sunshine
while a seasonal lifeguard helps swimmers to feel safer among the waves
Complete your visit by sampling local favourite lapas grelhadas (limpets) at the beach bar and venturing down the small trail to the waterfall
Praia Formosa beach on Santa Maria (Daniel Clarke)7
Light golden sands are lapped by shallow warm waters
while the green slopes rising gently inland make for a stunning backdrop
The colourful “Beach Parque” provides drinks and snacks in a well-kept outside venue — head here in August
and live music replaces the usual soundtrack of waves and birds
Almoxarife beach at Horta, Faial island (Getty Images)8. Praia Do Almoxarife, FaialOn this black sand beach with a view, lie back on your towel and ogle Mount Pico, the highest point of Portugal
Situated on the neighbouring island of the same name
a clear line of sight makes Almoxarife the best vantage point around — without having to strap on your hiking boots
this is also an excellent family-friendly option
São MiguelThe main beach on the island of São Miguel
with visitors spread out across various bars and cafés
and lifeguards are on duty during the bathing season
São MiguelSettle in at Mosteiros Beach for one of the best sunsets on São Miguel — preferably with an Especial beer
waves draw in the surfers — and natural swimming pools lined with volcanic rock make it a cracking place to take a dip too
Take a walk along the coast to the “Caneiros” pools; well worth the short stroll
TerceiraTerceira is the third biggest of the Azores Islands
and its main beach offers a spacious bathing area with a super-central location
the beach is surrounded by historic buildings
so there are ample options for dining and entertainment near by
The outer marina walls keep the waters calm
visitors can find a second slice of beach beyond the boat moorings
This blue flag sandy beach is one of the most popular on São Miguel
The light grey sand is like a warm blanket on sunny days
loved by families for its seasonal lifeguard and well-equipped facilities
so it’s also an appealing choice for a late afternoon visit
perhaps to enjoy a sundowner or dinner against a backdrop of lapping waves
São JorgeReaching Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo requires some effort because it’s only accessible on foot — or perhaps a buggy
With wetlands surrounding the lake and shore
protected by towering cliffs and the spectacular trail
starting in Serra do Topo and descending to Santo Cristo
Simão Dias is the most impressive of all the islands’ natural pools and much easier to access
Café Y Family-friendly N — not for young children owing to hike
The rocky stairs and pathway down to this secluded
The lack of facilities only adds to the appeal — you’ll feel as though you’ve found your very own secret Atlantic outpost
The waters are ideal for a swim or snorkel
although keep in mind the lack of a lifeguard
Places such as this capture the real magic of the Azores — an almost-private slice of paradise
this is just one of many quiet bays to discover
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The Midlands giants have already made one signing in the January window. Centre-back Emmanuel Agbadou joined Wolves from Stade Reims
Vitor Pereira has confirmed Wolves want to sign a new midfielder and
And reporting the Old Gold have approached Portuguese side Vitoria SC, Fabrizio Romano revealed Wolves want to sign Manu Silva — a young
Manu Silva could replace Mario Lemina, who is expected to leave. Although Lemina has apologised for refusing to play against Newcastle United
Given the exciting news about Wolves’ pursuit of Manu Silva
Molineux News have provided you with everything you need to know about a player who could become the club’s second winter signing
Manu Silva was born in Santa Maria da Feira — a city in the Aveiro District in Portugal
Manu Silva plays as a defensive midfielder but also has experience playing on the right and left side at centre-back
Manu Silva has spent his entire career playing in Portugal
He joined CD Feirense’s youth academy in 2012
He climbed the ranks and featured nine times for the under-23s before being promoted to the first team in 2020
Manu Silva joined Vitoria SC in 2023 for £325,000 and has made 60 appearances in all competitions
Manu Silva will cost Wolves £10 million (€12 million)
The midfielder’s potential move to Molineux could also include a 10 per cent sell-on clause
Jeronimos Monastery
Monastery of Batalha
Monastery of Alcobaça
Serra do Pilar Monastery
Deeply in love with music and with a guilty pleasure in criminal cases
Santos decided to study Journalism and Communication
hoping to combine both passions into writing
The journalist is also a passionate traveller who likes to write about other cultures and discover the various hidden gems from Portugal and the world
We appreciate that not everyone can afford to pay for our services but if you are able to
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I highly recommend Walter Osswald's "The Cistercian Monasteries in Portugal: A brief guidebook" (Edicoes Afrontamento)
All 30 Cistercian monasteries from North to South
Send us your comments or opinion on this article
Reaching over 400,000 people a week with news about Portugal
Car dealership Autopolis has installed 639 photovoltaic panels on its roof Maison moderne/archives
The Bertrange-based car dealership has installed 639 photovoltaic panels over a 2,700m2 area on its roof
this translates to a reduction of carbon dioxide emissions by more than 100 tonnes
At the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show
Goodyear unveiled its Oxygene concept tyre
which includes living moss in the sidewall
the tyre absorbs water from the roads and circulates it
which reaches the moss and allows photosynthesis to occur
Not only does that mean that the moss releases oxygen
but Oxygene also utilises the energy generated during the process to help power its own electronics
a company specialising in hard material cutting and wear protection solutions
expects a reduction of current electricity consumption by over 80%
ventilation and heat recovery systems in its production building
The Mamer-based company also boasts its own recycling facilities
allowing for recycled materials to be reused
Ceratizit won the Green Facility Management Award 2014 for its efforts
ArcelorMittal is helping the industry take the solar route
the Luxembourg-based steel giant acquired French solar tracker firm Exosun
It supplies high precision solar steel structures
it has built over nine solar installations in Europe
And it’s not just solar that it is active in. In 2016, the manufacturer provided steel for the world’s first floating windfarm, off the east coast of Scotland. In terms of its water consumption, it recently announced plans for a seawater desalination plant at ArcelorMittal Tubarão in Brazil
providing an alternative to freshwater from the Santa Maria da Vitoria River for its water system
Luxembourg-based flooring firm Tarkett is a top student when it comes to waste recycling in its products
70% of its materials come from sustainable resources while 98% of raw materials are third-party assessed by the EPEA for their impact on people’s health and the environment based on the cradle to cradle (C2C) to criteria
Some of its flooring ranges have achieved Gold level certification
The C2C certification considers use of healthy and recycled materials
Lukas Bato on Unsplash Editorial Team 17 May 2023
14:42The history of Portugal has left behind many constructions and works that today delight those who visit this paradise by the sea and who are not only looking for sun and sea
but also rich culture and sights to be discovered
in Greater Lisbon and in the Central region of Portugal where you can find the monuments that most attracted the interest of tourists
So, what is the most visited monument in Portugal
After recent years affected by the pandemic
tourism and culture in Portugal finally got back on its feet last year and
the number of visits to monuments in the country almost tripled
According to the DGPC (General Directorate of Cultural Heritage)
but still far from the excellent figures achieved between 2017 and 2020
experts believe that this will be a year in which visits to Portuguese heritage return to pre-pandemic numbers
And to make sure you see the finest monuments that Portugal has to offer
we're here to help you plan your trip with the ranking of the top 7 most visited monuments in Portugal
PixabayAccording to the Direção-Geral do Património Cultural
the Jerónimos Monastery was the most visited monument in Portugal in 2022
The Jerónimos Monastery is a magnificent architectural complex located in the Belem district of Lisbon
The monastery was built in the 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical and cultural significance
The Monastery is also a resting place for monarchic figures
as it is here that the tombs of King Manuel I and his family are found
as well as those of one of the best known Portuguese navigators
The monastery is considered a masterpiece of Portuguese late Gothic architecture
with intricate stonework and sculptural details that reflect the wealth and power of Portugal during the Age of Discovery
The main entrance to the monastery is through a grand archway that leads to a spacious courtyard
The ornate cloisters are one of the most impressive features of the monastery
Many people also combine a trip to the monastery with some of Portugal's most famous sweet treat: pastéis de nata
The history these pastéis de nata (also known as pastéis de Belém) can be traced back to the Jerónimos Monastery
the monks who lived in the monastery began selling the tarts to earn some extra income
The recipe for the tarts was a closely guarded secret for many years
it was sold to a sugar refinery in the 1830s
The refinery then opened a pastry shop called "Pastéis de Belém" near the monastery
which still operates today and attracts tourists in their thousands to try the famous pastéis de nata
PixabayThe silver medal goes to the beautiful Torre de Belém
it was then quite different compared to today
the Tower was completely surrounded by water
as the years passed and due to the displacement of the river
on days when the tide is low it is possible to walk to its base
and which goes unnoticed by even the most attentive
is the fact that there is an image of a rhinoceros carved on the outside
This was the first depiction of this animal found in Europe and was inspired by the rhinoceros that was given to King Manuel I by an Indian king
PixabayThe last spot on the podium is occupied by the Batalha Monastery
also known as the Monastery of Santa Maria da Vitória
a magnificent Gothic-style monastery located in the town of Batalha
It was built in the 14th century to commemorate the victory of the Portuguese over the Castilians in the famous Battle of Aljubarrota
The Batalha Monastery was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983
recognising its importance as one of the most significant examples of Gothic architecture in Portugal
It remains a popular tourist attraction today
attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its impressive architecture and learn about its rich history
is a historical complex located in the city of Tomar
It was originally a Templar stronghold in the 12th century and was later turned into a monastery by the Order of Christ in the 15th century
The complex is one of the most important examples of Portuguese Gothic architecture and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983
The convent includes a number of notable buildings
a circular church with a Templar origin that is considered one of the most unique structures of its kind in the world
Gothic and Manueline architectural elements
visitors can tour the Convent of Christ and admire its stunning architecture and rich history
The complex is located in the heart of Tomar and is a must-see for anyone interested in Portuguese history
Wikimedia commonsThe first tourist attraction in Portugal to surpass the 200,000 entry mark in 2022 was the National Tile Museum
as this is one of the most important national museums due to the distinct artistic expression of our culture. The museum is dedicated to the art and history of Portuguese tiles
It is one of the most important cultural institutions in the country and a must-visit destination for those interested in the art of tile-making
all you have to do is walk to the former Convent of Madre de Deus
there you can find a tile panel that will show you Lisbon before the 1755 earthquake
to identify the major changes caused by the disaster in the design of Portugal's capital
is a medieval monastery located in the town of Alcobaça
The monastery was founded in 1153 by the first King of Portugal
as a symbol of the new kingdom's power and wealth
It is one of the most important examples of Gothic architecture in Portugal and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1989
the first and largest of the Early Gothic style built in the Middle Ages
received almost 200,000 visitors last year
One of the most notable features of the Alcobaça Monastery is the tomb of Pedro and Inês de Castro
Pedro was the son of King Afonso IV and Inês was his lover
Their tragic love story has become part of Portuguese folklore and has inspired many works of literature
The tomb is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Gothic sculpture in Portugal and features intricate carvings and detailed ornamentation
PixabayAccording to data from the Directorate General of Cultural Heritage (DGPC)
the final place in the ranking of the top 7 most visited monuments in Portugal is occupied by the beautiful National Palace of Mafra
it's time to get to know this incredible Portuguese palace
known for its impressive size and stunning architecture.
The palace was built in the 18th century by King João V and includes a church
symmetrical façade that stretches over 200 meters
all of which are examples of the high Baroque style that was popular in Portugal during the 18th century
his initial idea was that it should only be a modest convent to house thirteen friars
the building took on astronomical proportions and today it covers an area of 4 hectares
One of the most impressive features of the Mafra National Palace is its library
which is considered one of the most beautiful and important libraries in Europe
and features stunning Baroque architecture and decoration
there are various styles of imposing buildings that make up the list of the 7 most visited monuments in Portugal and which are appreciated by all generations
Take advantage of this ranking of the 7 historical buildings in Portugal that received the most visitors in 2022 and enjoy a trip to Portugal to discover the best of what the country has to offer, beyond the beach. And if you need somewhere to stay, make sure to check out the wide range of holiday rentals in Portugal available on Rentalia.
The best hikes in Portugal: trails you can’t miss Portugal may be famous for its golden beaches and historic cities
but it’s also a dream destination for hikers
From rugged coastal paths to mountain adventures
Portugal offers trails for every level of experience
here’s your guide to the best hikes in Portugal
Pixabay Editorial Team 23 August 2023
12:00The history of Portugal has left many buildings and constructions that today delight those who visit this coastal paradise
And it is mainly in Greater Lisbon and the Centre region where the monuments that most attracted the interest of both foreign and Portuguese tourists last year are located
The imposing buildings that make up the list of the seven most visited monuments in Portugal and that are appreciated by all generations range in style from Gothic architecture to Manueline
here is the ranking of the seven historic buildings that received the most visitors in 2022 and
we have some curious facts about each of them
PixabayAccording to data from the Directorate-General for Cultural Heritage (DGPC)
the seventh place in this Top 7 of the most visited monuments is occupied by the beautiful National Palace of Mafra
it's time to take a little excursion on one of those beach days in Ericeira and get to know this incredible place
But let's move on to the trivia: did you know that King D
Miguel's initial idea was to make the world a better place
it was a modest convent to house thirteen friars
the work gained astronomical dimensions and today occupies 4 hectares
as it is one of the most important in Europe and also among the most beautiful in the world
PixabayThis fantastic work of Cistercian architecture is 870 years old
with the growth of tourism and interest in cultural heritage
the first and largest of the early Gothic style built in the Middle Ages
received almost 200,000 visitors in the past year
The Monastery of Alcobaça leads us to the most famous love story in Portugal
as the graves of both were placed face to face so that the two lovers will meet again on the Day of Resurrection
Wikimedia commonsThe first to exceed the milestone of 200,000 entries in 2022 was the Museu Nacional do Azulejo
as this is one of the most important national museums due to the distinct artistic expression of our culture
you just have to go to the old Convento de Madre de Deus
there you will find a tile panel depicting Lisbon before the 1755 earthquake
where it is easy to identify the major changes caused by the disaster in the design of our capital
PixabayThe famous Janela do Capítulo This true work of art is a hit on social media and ranks 4th in the most visited Portuguese monuments
While may have heard of the famous Manueline window
and even the fact that the convent is linked to the time of the Knights Templar
you probably don't know that this phenomenal place was once the setting for the film "Damsel"
the monument had to be closed to the public due to shooting in the Friars’ Kitchen and the Carving Room
PixabayOn arrival at the podium, we head towards the district of Leiria and find the Monastery of Batalha
This architectural ensemble was built as a result of a promise made by King D
in gratitude for the victory in the battle of Aljubarrota
its real name is Monastery of Santa Maria da Vitória
The Royal Cloister and the Imperfect Chapels
PixabayThe silver medal goes to the beautiful Belém Tower
Then the Tower was completely surrounded by water
over the years and due to the movement of the river
on low tide days it is possible to walk to its base
and which goes unnoticed even by the most attentive
This was the first representation of this animal found in Europe and was inspired by the rhinoceros that was offered to the King D
According to the Directorate-General for Cultural Heritage
the Jerónimos Monastery was last year the most visited monument in the country
Located in Belém, this architectural masterpiece took over a hundred years to build. And in 1983 it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The Monastery is also a resting place for monarchical figures, as it is here that the tombs of King D. João da Silva are located. Manuel I and his family, as well as one of the most famous Portuguese navigators, Vasco da Gama.
After two years of pandemic, tourism and culture have bounced back in the past year and, as a result, the number of visits to our monuments has almost tripled. According to the DGPC, 2022 was quite positive, but still far from the excellent figures achieved between 2017 and 2020.
In a 2023 already free from facemasks, alcohol gel and, above all, confinements, we believe that this will be a year in which visits to our heritage return to pre-pandemic numbers. We look forward to the results. Until then, we advise you to make a stop between the 1st and 2nd place of the Top 7 to eat some delicious pastéis de Belém.
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