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Calçada de Copacabana: A Timeless Mosaic

Stroll along Rio's iconic wave-patterned promenade, a vibrant symbol of Copacabana's beach culture and artistic heritage.

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The Calçada de Copacabana is more than just a sidewalk; it's an iconic symbol of Rio de Janeiro. This black and white mosaic walkway, designed with a wave pattern, stretches along Copacabana Beach, reflecting the city's vibrant culture and coastal beauty.

A brief summary to Calçada de Copacabana

  • Av. Nossa Sra. de Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, Copacabana, State of Rio de Janeiro, BR

Local tips

  • Take a stroll during sunrise or sunset for stunning views and cooler temperatures.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and stick to well-lit areas.
  • Enjoy fresh coconut water from one of the many vendors along the calçada.
  • Visit Forte de Copacabana at the south end for panoramic views of the beach and coastline.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From anywhere along Copacabana Beach, simply walk towards the calçada that runs parallel to the shoreline. The calçada is easily accessible from the beach and Avenida Atlântica. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by Metro, the closest stations are Cardeal Arcoverde, Siqueira Campos, and Cantagalo. From any of these stations, walk towards Avenida Nossa Senhora de Copacabana and then towards the beach. The calçada is located along the beach. A single metro ticket costs approximately R$6.90.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Copacabana. Simply ask your driver to take you to Copacabana Beach (Praia de Copacabana). The calçada runs the entire length of the beach. A short taxi ride within Copacabana typically costs between R$21 and R$40. Be aware that fares may increase at night or on Sundays.

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Discover more about Calçada de Copacabana

The Calçada de Copacabana, or Copacabana sidewalk, is one of Rio de Janeiro's most recognizable landmarks. This 4.15-kilometer-long promenade runs along the entirety of Copacabana Beach, from Leme to the beginning of Ipanema, and is famed for its distinctive wave-like mosaic pattern. The history of the calçada dates back to 1905 when Rio de Janeiro Mayor Pereira Passos initiated a modernization plan for the city, drawing inspiration from Portuguese paving techniques. The stones, black basalt and white calcite, were imported from Portugal because Brazil had not yet discovered limestone deposits. Thirty-six cobblers were brought from Lisbon to install the stones. The original design, based on the 'Mar Largo' (Wide Sea) pattern from Lisbon's Rossio Square, featured waves perpendicular to the beach. In the 1970s, landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx redesigned the calçada during the Avenida Atlântica's expansion. He shifted the wave pattern to run parallel with the shore, creating a sense of continuity with the ocean. Burle Marx also integrated the design into a broader landscape project featuring trees and palm trees. The Copacabana sidewalk is maintained to this day by professionals trained by Lisbon artisans. Today, the Calçada de Copacabana is a vibrant hub, drawing tourists and locals alike. It provides space for walking, jogging, and cycling, and is lined with kiosks, restaurants, and shops. The Copacabana sidewalk is a symbol of Rio de Janeiro and Brazilian culture.

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