
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Belém, Brazil
1. Ver-o-Peso Market
A historic market where you can buy everything from fish to souvenirs. Its unique feature is the large scale used for weighing goods.
- Huge Scale: One of the largest operational scales in the world, able to weigh up to 60 tons.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: Bustling market full of local culture and lively trading activities.
- Historical Significance: Established in the 17th century, it has been a vital part of Belem's commerce for centuries.
2. Metropolitan Cathedral of Belém
The world's largest parish church with intricate baroque architecture and a unique octagonal structure.
- Massive Size: Spans over 8,000 square meters and can accommodate up to 24,000 people.
- Baroque Architecture: Features an ornate golden altar and elaborate frescoes.
- Historic Significance: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant symbol of Belem's history.
3. Igreja do Divino Espírito Santo
An unusual church with an upside-down bell tower, designed to symbolize the crucifixion of Jesus.
- Upside-Down Bell Tower: The only church in Belem featuring this unique architectural design.
- Baroque Architecture: Features intricate wooden carvings and gold details.
- Historic Significance: Built in the early 18th century, it is one of Belem's oldest churches.
4. Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Neves
A church built on a hill with a unique double-spiral staircase that connects the two bell towers.
- Double-Spiral Staircase: The only church in Brazil featuring this type of architectural design.
- Baroque Architecture: Features a beautiful blue-and-white façade and detailed interior.
- Historic Significance: Built in the 18th century, it is one of Belem's oldest churches.
5. Casa do Ipe Quadricentenário
A centuries-old house made entirely from the ipe wood tree with unique hand-carved details.
- Entirely Made of Ipe Wood: The house is crafted without using any nails or iron elements.
- Hand-Carved Details: Features intricate carvings and details on the wooden walls and ceilings.
- Historic Significance: Built in the late 16th century, it is one of Belem's oldest houses.
6. Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi
A museum featuring a unique collection of Amazonian flora and fauna, including a two-headed cow.
- Amazonian Biodiversity: Showcases over a million specimens from the Amazon rainforest.
- Two-Headed Cow Exhibit: One of only a few two-headed cattle ever recorded in history.
- Research Center: Serves as a research center for Amazonian studies and conservation.
7. Teatro da Paz
A theater with a unique rotating stage that allows the audience to experience performances from all angles.
- Rotating Stage: The only theater in Brazil with a fully rotating stage.
- Artistic Performances: Offers a diverse range of cultural performances, from dance to music and theater.
- Historic Significance: Built in the early 20th century as a symbol of peace between Brazil and Peru.
8. Farol do Moura
A lighthouse shaped like an Egyptian pyramid, standing as a unique landmark on the shores of Belem.
- Egyptian Pyramid Shape: One of only a few lighthouses in the world with this distinctive design.
- Maritime Navigation: Serves as an essential navigation aid for ships entering and leaving the Amazon River.
- Historic Significance: Built in the early 20th century, it is a symbol of Belem's maritime importance.
9. Museu do Para
A museum with a unique collection focusing on the history and culture of the state of Para.
- Regional History and Culture: Features artifacts, photographs, and exhibits highlighting Belem's rich history.
- Indigenous Artifacts: Showcases a collection of indigenous art and artifacts from the Amazon region.
- Historic Significance: Serves as an educational resource for understanding Belem's history and cultural heritage.
10. Estação das Docas
A dock complex turned cultural center with unique historical buildings and exhibitions.
- Historical Buildings: Includes restored warehouses and old customs houses from the early 20th century.
- Cultural Events: Hosts a variety of cultural events, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and food markets.
- Historic Significance: Once served as the gateway for Amazonian rubber exports and is now a symbol of Belem's past.
11. Estátua de Marechal Rondon
A statue of Brazilian explorer and engineer Marechal Rondon, featuring a unique design that combines modern and indigenous aesthetics.
- Modern and Indigenous Aesthetics: The statue's design incorporates elements from the indigenous cultures of the Amazon region.
- Historical Figure: Honors Marechal Rondon, who played a crucial role in exploring and developing the Amazon region.
- Public Art: Serves as a symbol of national pride and Belem's connection to Brazilian history.
12. Igreja da Nazaré
A church with a unique open-air layout and colorful artwork on its walls.
- Open-Air Layout: The only church in Belem with an open-air design, allowing for a more intimate connection with nature.
- Colorful Artwork: Features colorful murals and paintings on the walls and ceilings.
- Historic Significance: Built in the late 18th century, it is one of Belem's oldest churches.
13. Catedral de São José Operário
A cathedral with a unique design that combines Gothic and Amazonian aesthetics.
- Gothic-Amazonian Aesthetics: The cathedral's design features elements of both Gothic architecture and indigenous Amazonian art.
- Sacred Space: Serves as a sacred space for worship and religious events.
- Historic Significance: Built in the mid-20th century, it is a symbol of Belem's modern architecture and religious heritage.
14. Jardim Zoológico do Pará
A zoo featuring unique Amazonian animals such as the jaguar, anaconda, and pink river dolphin.
- Amazonian Wildlife: Showcases a variety of Amazonian wildlife not typically found in other zoos.
- Educational Opportunities: Provides educational programs and workshops about Amazonian conservation and wildlife.
- Recreational Space: Offers a family-friendly environment for recreation and relaxation.
15. Casa de Torpedos
A museum dedicated to the history of submarines and torpedoes, featuring unique artifacts and exhibits.
- Maritime History: Showcases a collection of submarines, torpedoes, and artifacts related to maritime warfare.
- Historical Significance: Honors the role played by Brazil in the development of submarine technology.
- Technological Innovations: Provides insights into the technological innovations that have shaped maritime warfare history.