Belem

Quality of life in Belem

Cost of Living, Healthcare, Safety, Education, and More

Introduction

Belem, the capital of the state of Pará in Brazil, is a vibrant city known for its rich Amazonian culture and history. Situated at the mouth of the Amazon River, Belem serves as a gateway to the Amazon rainforest, offering a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty. The city is renowned for its colonial architecture, bustling markets, and diverse culinary scene, making it a fascinating destination for both locals and tourists.

In recent years, Belem has seen a resurgence in cultural activities and urban development, with efforts to preserve its historical sites while embracing modernity. The city's tropical climate and lush surroundings contribute to its appeal, attracting visitors who are eager to explore its natural and cultural offerings.

Climate
Very Good
About this index
Healthcare
Poor
About this index
Traffic
Very High
About this index
Affordability
Very Expensive
About this index
Pollution
High
About this index

History and Culture

Founded in 1616, Belem has a rich history that reflects its strategic importance as a colonial port city. It played a crucial role during the rubber boom in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which brought wealth and architectural grandeur to the city. Many of Belem's historic buildings, such as the Theatro da Paz and the Basilica of Our Lady of Nazareth, stand as testaments to this prosperous era.

Belem is a cultural melting pot, with influences from indigenous, African, and European communities. This diversity is evident in the city's vibrant festivals, such as the Círio de Nazaré, one of the largest religious events in Brazil, attracting millions of pilgrims each year. The city's music scene is equally dynamic, with traditional rhythms like carimbó and tecnobrega reflecting its cultural heritage.

The Ver-o-Peso Market, one of the largest open-air markets in Latin America, is a cultural landmark where visitors can experience the local way of life. Here, the fusion of flavors, aromas, and colors showcases the rich biodiversity of the Amazon region. Belem's museums and galleries, such as the Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi, offer insights into the region's natural and cultural history, further enriching the city's cultural landscape.

Things to do in Belem

Visitors to Belem can explore the lush Amazon rainforest through guided tours that offer a glimpse into the region's unique ecosystems. The Mangal das Garças Park is a popular destination for nature lovers, featuring a diverse array of flora and fauna native to the Amazon.

For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to the Theatro da Paz and the Forte do Presépio is a must. These sites offer a window into Belem's colonial past and its architectural evolution over the centuries.

Food enthusiasts will enjoy the city's culinary offerings, with local dishes like tacacá and açaí providing a taste of the Amazon. The Ver-o-Peso Market is an ideal place to sample these delicacies and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Belem's food scene.

Cultural events and festivals are abundant in Belem, with the Círio de Nazaré being a highlight. This annual religious festival is a spectacular display of faith and tradition, drawing visitors from all over the world.

See top attractions and things to do in Belem
Worldwide
Brazil

Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for Brazil reflect how livable a city in Brazil is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.
Best to WorstUpdated: Oct, 2025

Weather in Belem

Belém, Brazil experiences a tropical rainforest climate characterized by high humidity and significant rainfall throughout the year. The city has a consistent temperature pattern with little variation between seasons. Belém receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 120 inches (3,048 mm), with March being the wettest month, averaging around 15 inches (381 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (September to November)Temperatures remain fairly constant, with average highs around 88°F (31°C) and lows around 73°F (23°C). Rainfall is slightly less than in the wettest months, but still significant, averaging around 10 inches (254 mm) per month.
  • Summer (December to February)Temperatures are warm, with average highs around 89°F (32°C) and lows around 74°F (24°C). This period marks the beginning of the rainy season, with January and February receiving heavy rainfall, averaging around 12 inches (305 mm) per month.
  • Autumn (March to May)This is the peak of the rainy season, with March being the wettest month. Average temperatures remain stable, with highs around 88°F (31°C) and lows around 73°F (23°C). Rainfall can exceed 15 inches (381 mm) in March.
  • Winter (June to August)Temperatures remain warm, with average highs around 87°F (31°C) and lows around 72°F (22°C). Rainfall decreases slightly compared to the peak rainy season, averaging around 8 inches (203 mm) per month.
Notable Weather Events
  • Heavy rainfall during the rainy season, particularly in March.
  • Occasional flooding due to intense and prolonged rainfall.
  • High humidity levels throughout the year.

Belem's Political Climate

Left-leaning

Belém, the capital of the state of Pará in Brazil, is a city with a rich political history and a dynamic political climate. As a major city in the Amazon region, Belém plays a crucial role in the political discourse surrounding environmental conservation and indigenous rights. The city's governance is characterized by a strong focus on sustainable development, reflecting its commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.

The political landscape in Belém is shaped by a mix of progressive and traditional influences. The city has been at the forefront of implementing policies aimed at improving social equity and environmental sustainability. Recent initiatives have focused on enhancing public transportation, promoting renewable energy, and supporting local communities through social programs. These efforts are indicative of a broader trend in Brazilian politics towards addressing social and environmental challenges.

Belém's political leadership is actively engaged in addressing key issues such as urban development, public safety, and healthcare. The city's administration has been working to improve infrastructure and services, while also fostering economic opportunities for its residents. The political climate in Belém is further influenced by national politics, with local leaders often aligning with broader political movements in Brazil.

Political Quick Facts
  • Voter Turnout68%
  • City GovernanceMayor-council government
  • CompositionMajority left-wing parties with minority right-wing representation
  • Recent Political ChangesIncreased focus on environmental policies and indigenous rights
  • EngagementHigh, with active participation in local and national elections
  • Political ScorecardModerate, with room for improvement in transparency and accountability
  • Legislative PrioritiesEnvironmental conservation Social equity programs Infrastructure development
  • Public OpinionGenerally progressive, with strong support for environmental and social justice initiatives
Notable Political Figures
  • Edmilson RodriguesCurrent mayor known for his focus on social programs and urban development.
  • Marina SilvaProminent environmentalist and politician advocating for Amazon conservation.
  • Jader BarbalhoInfluential senator with a long history in Pará's political scene.