Goiânia

Goiânia is the capital and largest city of the Brazilian state of Goiás, located in the Central-West region of the country. It was founded on December 24, 1933, as a planned city to serve as the new state capital, replacing the old center of Goiás. The name Goiânia combines the state name with the feminine suffix -ânia. The city anchors the Grande Goiânia metropolitan area, which includes several surrounding municipalities.

Geography and climate: Goiânia sits on a broad plateau in central Brazil. It has a tropical savanna climate (Aw), with a pronounced wet season from October to March and a dry season from April to September. The urban layout emphasizes wide avenues and a grid plan, with numerous parks and green spaces integrated into the city.

Demographics and economy: The city has a large urban population and serves as a political, economic, and cultural hub in the region. Its economy is diversified, with services, commerce, health, and education forming key sectors, alongside a surrounding agribusiness belt. Goiânia hosts several higher education institutions, including the Federal University of Goiás (UFG).

Culture and urban life: Goiânia is known for its wide boulevards, modernist urban planning, and active cultural scene, including theaters, museums, and festivals. Parks and public spaces are a notable feature of the city, contributing to its reputation as a green urban center in the region.

Transportation: The city is served by Santa Genoveva International Airport and is connected by highways to Brasília and other major Brazilian cities. It also features a comprehensive public bus network that serves residents and visitors.