Page 48 - POR320Summer2018

Maranhão is a state in northeast Brazil and is characterised
by the dense Amazonian forests in its northern areas and
long stretches of barren beaches along the Parnaíba River
and coastline. It is bordered by Piauí, Tocantins and Pará as
well as the Atlantic Ocean.
The extensive beaches and sand dunes are protected, due

to their ecological importance and contribution. This makes
them particularly beautiful to see, as human interference is
minimal. The capital city of this state is São Luís, which is
also the largest city in the state. São Luis’ old city, the streets
are lined with bright facades and intricate tiling, and signature details of Brazilian architecture.
The 16th century was a time of global exploration for the Europeans. Although various parts of
South America had been occupied by the semi-nomadic tribes that were native to the area for
centuries, the 1500’s saw the introduction of other nations, cultures and tongues. Records

indicate that the Spaniard, Vicente Yáñez Pinzón, was the first person to explore Maranhão in
1500. However, the area was officially given to João de Barros in 1534 as a Portuguese
hereditary captaincy. It was 60 years later, in 1594, that the French established the first
settlement in what is today known as Maranhão. In 1612, a French colony was also
established on São Luís Island. This was a short-lived victory as the Portuguese ousted the
French in 1615 and maintained power until 1641, when the Dutch took over.

Maranhão is home to approximately 6.5 million people, with over two-thirds of the population
living in urban areas. It remains one of the poorest Brazilian states.The highest point, the Serra
da Cinta, is 4,373 feet (1,333 metres) in elevation. From these highlands a number of river

systems run generally northeastward into the Atlantic. Area 128,179 square miles (331,983
square km). Pop. (2010) 6,574,789.The service sector is the largest component of GDP at
70%, followed by the industrial sector at 19,6%. Agriculture represents 10,4%, of GDP (2015).
Maranhão is the 4th largest economy in the Northeast and 17th in Brazil.

Cabana do Sol– An award-winning culinary mecca made for the carnivore, serving savory
“carnes” plates with the traditional Brazilian sides: rice, beans and yuca. Take home a bottle of

the pimenta sauce.

Piauí (Gilda)

17/20