Praça XV

Historically, Praça XV comprised the symbolic heart of Centro [1], and since most buses pass by this large plaza, it’s a practical point from which to begin exploring the area. Its full name, Praça XV de Novembro, refers to November 15, 1899, the day when Brazil’s first president, Manuel Deodoro de Fonseca, stood and declared Brazil [2] to be a republic.

Many significant historical events have taken place here—among them the crowning of Brazil’s two emperors, Pedro I and Pedro II, and the abolition of slavery in 1888.

On Thursdays and Fridays, a colorful street market fills the square with vendors hawking everything from food and handicrafts to antique stamps and coins.