Nova Almeida, Espírito Santo

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Nova Almeida is a town in the municipality of Serra, in the State of Espírito Santo, Brazil. Its official status is a "Neighbourhood" (Bairro in Portuguese). The town is located about 30km north of the state capital, Vitória. It has a population of around 266,800.

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[edit] History

It was founded in 1556 by Jesuit priests who wanted to spread the Christian faith amongst native Amerindians. First founded under the name Reis Magos (now the name of the river at whose mouth it rests), it was then known as Aldeia Nova (taking that name from neighbouring Aldeia Nova, which today is Santa Cruz). It later changed to its current name, Nova Almeida. Around 1760, there were about 3000 Tupiniquim Amerindians living here, forming the bulk of Nova Almeida's population.

[edit] Geography

Nova Almeida's area is 547km² and it lies on the coast at sea level. It is now considered part of the Greater Vitória metropolitan area, since it lies within Serra.

[edit] Economy

This town has undergone great transformation in the last 30 years or so; from a typical rural area, it has become an international hub for commerce and industry. Today, it has two large-scale ports as part of its infrastructure and a number of industrial enterprises.

[edit] Tourism

Tourism also has a role in Nova Almeida, as it has very nice beaches, and like many parts of the state, it too recognizes the importance of this industry and has invested in promoting its tranquil coastline to tourism.