Page 61 - POR320Summer2018

Roraima (David Clarke)
Roraima is the northern most and least
populated state in all of Brazil. The state
has three distinct geographic regions
“Floresta” “cerrado” and “montanha”.

History

The state of Roraima as it is today has
only existed since 1988. For over 400
years administrative control of the natural
resource rich territory was disputed. The
Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch and English
all made claim to the territory as early as
th
the 16 century. The name “Roraima”
comes from the indigenous Pemon people

and roughly translates to “large cyan” or
“green peak”.

Boa Vista

Boa Vista is the capital of Roraima. Boa Vista was given city status in 1926 and to this day is
the only Brazilian city north of the equator. Boa Vista has grown from settlements going as far
back as 1775 to become an important regional hub and cultural center. A charming and
modern city, Boa Vista is home to more than half of the population of Roraima.

Monte Roraima

Mount Roraima is the highest peak of the
Pakaraima chain of tepui plateaus. It is
found in the northern most part of the state
of Roraima and is right on the border with
Venezuela. This gorgeous natural wonder

is very popular destination for hikers and
can be reached from either the Brazilian or
Venezuelan side.

References:

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