Santa Teresa Neighborhood
Santa Teresa is a wealthy neighborhood on Santa Teresa Hill close to downtown. The interesting streets, homes and views of Rio make Santa Teresa a popular tourist destination. The neighborhood still retains some of its colonial charm as it has resisted development. The winding, twisty and narrow streets are cobblestone, the trees large & the homes are often mansions. A few homes have been converted into hotels or bed-&-breakfasts. You can also find a few restaurants, museums, art studios, galleries and churches. At one time the tourist route to Santa Teresa was by Trolley from downtown Rio all the way up to the top of the hill. The trolley even crossed the Carioca Aqueduct, built in the 18th century to carry water. But, after a bad accident between a trolley and a bus, the trolley is no longer used. Five people were killed at least 27 injured when the tram derailed in 2011. The neighborhood originated around the Santa Teresa Convent, built in the 1750s. After the convent was established, more residents moved there. The neighborhood was also protected from a cholera epidemic in the late 19th century. Most taxi drivers will drop you off at Largo do Guimar�es located in the heart of the neighborhood on Rua Almirante Alexandrino. This square is filled with bars, restaurants, handicraft shops and is the center of carnival activities.
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Largo do Curvelo
Largo do Guimar�es
Sugar Loaf in the distance