Guide Note
The city of Sao Paulo is the largest city in Brazil. Nicknamed "Sampa," the city's motto is "Non ducor, duco", which is Latin for "I am not led, I lead."
Fast Facts
- Country: Brazil
- Mayor: Gilberto Kassab
- Language spoken: Portuguese
- Population: 10,886,518 (2006)
- Currency: Brazilian real
- Country code: 55
- Area code: 11
- Time zone: BRT
- Current time and weather
- Current exchange rate
Background
Sao Paulo was founded in 1554 by two Jesuit missionaries, and then became a city in 1711. The town flourished by 1881 when immigrants from Italy, Germany, Portugal, Spain and many other countries came to work on the coffee plantations.
By the start of the 20th century, due to a sharp decline in international coffee prices, Sao Paulo started investing in the industrial development of the city. This attracted many immigrants including Italians, Japanese and Europeans.
Today Sao Paulo is a thriving tourist city and offers many activities such as festivals, fashion shows, parades and carnivals all year round.
Mahalo Suggests
If planning a trip to Sao Paulo, please see Sao Paulo Vacation, Sao Paulo Hotels and Sao Paulo Restaurants
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