Praça XV – 15th of November Square

You’re right at the heart of Rio de Janeiro’s historic center, on the 15th of November square. November 15th is an important date in Brazil, as it marks the proclamation of the Republic. Take a look around you. Back in 1590, all this land belonged to the Carmelite monks, who had built a convent here. The land was then sold to the city, but for a long time, everyone still called it Carmel Square. Rio was still but a small colonial city when the square rose to prominence. This is where the city’s first port was built! Slaves from Africa were brought in through here until 1811. The ferry terminal you can see on the shores of Guanabara Bay dates from the early 1900s. From there, you can catch a boat to Niteroi or Paquetá Island. The pyramid fountain next to you dates back to 1750 and was designed by Mestre Valentim, one of the leading artists and town planners of the time. The Viceroy commissioned him to build it to improve the city’s water supply and make it easier for ships to dock. On the opposite side, you’ll see the statue of General Osorio, who was buried here for a long time, before they moved him to his hometown. He was a hero in the bloody Paraguayan War fought between Paraguay and the Triple Alliance of Argentina, the Empire of Brazil, and Uruguay from 1865 to 1870. The cannonballs around him are real Paraguayan cannonballs. Fun fact: every Saturday, this square turns into a giant antiques market! It’s said to be the biggest in all of Latin America. Over 500 licensed vendors set up shop to show off their latest finds. Flea market lovers, this is a must-see!