Facts About Manaus

Posted on Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Manaus is located at the mouth of the upper Amazon where the Negro and Solimoes rivers meet and form the larger section of the Amazon. Founded in 1669 by Spanish explorers, Manaus became famous because of its rubber trade during the late 19th century. Rubber barons made it "one of the grandest cities in the World". The major attraction to last from this heyday is the Teatro Amazonas Opera House; recently restored, it is again hosting performances.

Today Manaus is a vibrant city of nearly 2 million residents and is the commercial center for the Amazon. Lumber, Brazil nuts, petroleum refining and numerous manufacturing companies are a staple for most of the industrial and commercial businesses. The airport is Eduardo Gomes International and offers domestic and international airline flights.

This area offers many yearly festivals:

• Amazonas Carnival - February
• Ponta Negra's Music Festival - May
• Amazonas Opera Festival - May
• Amazonas Folklore Festival - June
• Amazonas Jazz Festival - July
• Anniversary of Manaus - October 24
• Amazonas Film Festival - November
• New Year's Eve festival - December