Calcedônia

Calcedônia is a municipality located in the state of Rondônia, in the North Region of Brazil. Established on 31 March 1994, the town covers an area of approximately 2,635 square kilometres and had an estimated population of 11,350 inhabitants in 2023, according to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). The population density is low, reflecting the predominance of rural and agricultural land use.

The local economy is based mainly on agriculture, livestock raising, and small‑scale commerce. Primary crops include soybeans, corn, and beans, while cattle ranching contributes significantly to the municipality’s gross domestic product. The region also benefits from timber extraction, although recent policies have encouraged more sustainable practices to protect the surrounding Amazon rainforest.

Calcedônia experiences a tropical rainforest climate (Af) with high humidity and abundant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 22 °C to 28 °C. The area is traversed by several small rivers that feed into the Madeira River basin, providing water resources for irrigation and local consumption.

Culturally, the municipality reflects a mix of indigenous, Portuguese, and internal Brazilian influences. Local festivals often feature traditional music, dance, and cuisine, highlighting regional products such as fish, cassava, and tropical fruits. Education is served by a network of primary and secondary schools, while higher education opportunities are generally accessed in larger nearby cities such as Porto Velho.

Infrastructure includes a network of paved and unpaved roads connecting Calcedônia to neighboring municipalities. Healthcare services are provided by a municipal health center, with more specialized care available in regional hospitals. The municipality is administered by a mayor and a city council, elected every four years, adhering to the Brazilian federal system of municipal governance.