Advertise Now
  Home > Travel Central America > Central America Destinations > Petropolis


Petropolis




Central America is the central geographic region of the Americas. It is variably defined either as being a region of the Americas in its own right or as the southern portion of North America. Physiographically, Central America is a tropical isthmus that connects North and South America. It includes 7 countries and many small offshore islands. Overall, the land is fertile and rugged, and dominated through its heart by a string of volcanic mountain ranges with a few active volcanos.
 
Petropolis is also known as the Imperial City of Brazil, is a town in the state of Rio de Janeiro, about 65 kilometers from Rio de Janeiro. According to the 2000 census, population was 286537, area is 811 square kilometers and elevation is 809.5 meters.
 
Nestled among the forested hills of the Serra dos Orgaos, in the valley of the Quitandinha and Piabanha rivers, Petropolis is a popular summer holiday spot. Besides the climate and surroundings, the main attraction is the former Summer Palace of the Brazilian Emperors, which is now a museum, specializing in Imperial history and memorabilia.
 
The town's name honors Emperor Pedro I, the nation's first monarch. The city was the summer residence of the Brazilian Emperors and aristocrats in the 19th century, and was the official capital of the state of Rio de Janeiro between 1894 and 1903.

Petropolis is definitely one of the popular tourist attractions in Central America worth paying a visit while touring the country. This place leaves a pleasing and unforgettable memory and justifies the proud cultural tradition of Central America.

Back to Central America Destinations