Vidigal

Vidigal is a favela in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, located in the South Zone on the steep slopes above the Atlantic coast. It sits between Leblon and São Conrado, overlooking the beaches of Ipanema and Leblon. The community is organized around Morro Vidigal, a hill that rises above the shoreline, with housing distributed along terraces, stairways, and narrow streets that connect sea level to higher elevations.

History and development: Vidigal originated in the mid-20th century as a hillside settlement for migrants and workers and grew into a dense urban community typical of Rio’s favelas. In recent decades, public safety initiatives and infrastructure improvements have sought to stabilize the area, while residents and NGOs have promoted education, health, housing, and local enterprise.

Economy, culture, and tourism: The local economy comprises small shops, eateries, and informal services. In the 2010s, community-led tourism activities emerged, offering guided hillside walks and viewpoints that highlight Rio’s coastline. Art, music, and sports are integral to Vidigal’s social life, with numerous neighborhood associations coordinating events and services.

Challenges and governance: Vidigal faces ongoing issues common to many favelas, including housing informality, limited access to sanitation, and security concerns. Ongoing programs aim to expand services, improve safety, and promote inclusive development while preserving the community’s social networks and cultural identity.