Culture and Traditions

Brazil is fascinating for its miscegenation. The indigenous, European, Asian and African roots of Brazilians among many others are reflected not only in their culture as in their customs. The cuisine, music, crafts, architecture and festiva

ls imprint this multicultural identity. No wonder the country has 17 cultural and natural assets listed by UNESCO World Heritage Siteited Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) and one of the wonders of the modern world, the "Cristo Redentor" (Christ the Redeemer statue). Immigration in Brazil was extremely important for the formation of national culture. Characteristics from all over the world were added over the centuries since the arrival of the Portuguese in 1500. In addition to the contributions of Indians, blacks and Portuguese, the significant arrival of immigrants from all parts of Europe, the Middle East and Asia influenced the formation of Brazilian people. It should bee highlighted that, despite its territorial extent, the same language is spoken in all regions. Portuguese is the fifth most spoken language, and third among the western, after English and Spanish. The Brazilian Constitution guarantees the full exercise of cultural rights and states that the state should support, encourage and value their expression, and protect indigenous cultures, African-Brazilian and other groups participating in the national process of civilization.