The capital of the Brazilian state Amazonas is in the north of the country by the banks of the Rio Negro and is surrounded by beautiful rainforest. Manaus was founded in the 17th century by the Portuguese military. Due to the industrial boom in the city at the end of the 19th century, ports, market places, monuments and impressive buildings were built on the island. The city is famous for its rubber and latex production and its nickname is the "Paris of the tropical rainforests".
Sights include the "Teatro Amazonas" with its distinctive dome, which even today is the greatest symbol of this rich city.