Belo Horizonteball is the chief-townball of 
Minas Geraisball, in 
Brazilball.
History
The Birth of a Planned City
Belo Horizonte, also known as the “Beautiful Horizon,” is the capital of the state of Minas Gerais. It holds the distinction of being Brazil’s first planned modern city. Here’s how it all began:
- Early Settlement: The region where Belo Horizonte now stands was first settled in the early 18th century. However, the city as we know it today was meticulously planned and constructed in the 1890s.
Replacing
- Ouro Preto: The decision to build Belo Horizonte came about because the former capital, Ouro Preto, could no longer accommodate necessary expansions. The narrow valley that enclosed Ouro Preto made further growth impossible. Thus, the state of Minas Gerais needed a new capital.
- Grid Layout: Inspired by urban planning in Washington, D.C., and La Plata, Argentina, Belo Horizonte was laid out on a grid. It was inaugurated as the capital of Minas Gerais in 1897 under the name Cidade de Minas. Later, in 1901, it adopted its present name, Belo Horizonte.
- Modernity and Architectural Icons
Belo Horizonte has evolved into a vibrant metropolis with a mix of contemporary and classical buildings. Here are some highlights:
- Pampulha Complex: One of the city’s architectural gems is the Pampulha Complex, designed by renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer. It includes the Chapel of São Francisco, adorned with artwork by Cândido Portinari, and the Mineirão stadium, one of Brazil’s largest football (soccer) stadiums.
- Industrial Growth: Since the mid-20th century, Belo Horizonte has witnessed significant industrial growth. It is now one of Brazil’s largest industrial centers, with heavy industry, electrical generating facilities, and automobile factories.
- Tree-Lined Avenues: The city’s wide, tree-lined avenues radiate from the center like spokes of a wheel. Despite its industrial progress, Belo Horizonte has managed to remain relatively pollution-free.
In summary, Belo Horizonte’s rich history, architectural landmarks, and urban planning make it a captivating destination in Brazil. 🌆
