Paraíba

Paraíba is a state located in the Northeast region of Brazil. It covers approximately 56,000 square kilometers and has a population of around 4 million people. The capital and largest city is João Pessoa, which was previously known as Cidade de Nossa Senhora das Neves and renamed in 1930 to honor a state governor. Campina Grande, the second-largest city, is renowned for its annual São João festival.

Geography and environment: Paraíba is bordered by Rio Grande do Norte to the north, Ceará to the west, Pernambuco to the south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. The terrain ranges from coastal areas with beaches and mangroves to the semi-arid interior (the sertão) and the Borborema Plateau. The state features rivers such as the Paraíba and supports a Caatinga biome in its interior regions.

Economy: The economy combines agriculture, industry and services. Key agricultural products include sugarcane, cotton and tropical fruits, along with livestock. Industrial activity encompasses textiles, footwear and food processing. The Port of Cabedelo on the Atlantic coast serves as a trade hub. Tourism is significant, with coastal resorts, historical towns and natural attractions like rock formations and Caatinga landscapes contributing to the economy.

Culture and education: Paraíba has a rich cultural heritage expressed through music, crafts and cuisine. The state hosts major cultural events, including the São João festivities in Campina Grande. Higher education is centered on institutions such as the Federal University of Paraíba (UFPB), the State University of Paraíba (UEPB), and the Federal University of Campina Grande (UFCG).