Porto Alegre is the capital city of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, which is located in the southernmost part of Brazil. Geographically, it is situated at the confluence of five rivers, among which the Guaíba River is the most prominent. Although commonly referred to as a river, Guaíba is a large lake that empties into the Atlantic Ocean. The city spreads over hills and valleys, enjoying a subtropical climate with all four distinct seasons, which is somewhat unique in Brazil as most of the country has tropical climates. Porto Alegre's climate features hot summers, mild autumns, cool winters, and warm springs with plentiful rainfall year-round. The city's area is approximately 496.8 square kilometers (191.82 square miles), with a variety of ecosystems, including forests, swamps, and an extensive network of rivers and lakes. These natural features make Porto Alegre known for its biodiversity and for having one of the richest floras among Brazilian cities. The city's parks and plazas are instrumental in offering spaces of connection with nature within the urban setting. The Lami Biological Reserve and the delta of the Jacuí River are some of the significant green areas providing ecological services to the populous city. Porto Alegre was founded in 1772 by immigrants from the Azores, Portugal. It has a rich history that includes being a key site for significant events such as the Farroupilha Revolution, which was a ten-year republican uprising that resulted in the temporary establishment of the Riograndense Republic. Historically, it has been a center for the cattle trade and has significant agricultural importance in Brazil, owing to the vast Pampa region that extends into Uruguay and Argentina. Additionally, the city has played an essential role in Brazil's industrial development and continues to be a crucial economic hub in the country. Its port, one of the largest in Brazil, sits on the Guaíba Lake and plays a vital role in the area's economy, connecting the Mercosur economies of South America. Culturally, Porto Alegre reflects a blend of Brazilian and European influences, particularly from its Portuguese, Italian, and German immigrant communities. The city is known for the Gaucho tradition, which includes the churrasco, a form of barbecue that has become symbolic of the region, and chimarrão, a traditional caffeine-rich infused drink. The Gaucho culture prides itself on its unique music, dance, and attire, which are celebrated during the annual Farroupilha Week. Demographically, Porto Alegre has a population of approximately 1.5 million inhabitants, making it the tenth most populous city in Brazil. It is also one of the most diverse, with a significant number of European and Middle-Eastern descendants, as well as a growing Afro-Brazilian community. The city boasts a high Human Development Index and is recognized for its quality of life, infrastructure, and cultural vibrancy. It is a leading educator in the region, home to several universities, including the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), which is internationally recognized. The city infrastructure supports a wide array of activities ranging from industry to services and tourism. Porto Alegre also sets itself apart with its participatory budgeting model which began in the late 1980s, becoming an international example for democratic governance. This model allows citizens to decide how public funds should be allocated, engaging the population in local governance and development. Porto Alegre continues to evolve, confronting the challenges of urbanization while striving to maintain its cultural identity and enhance the well-being of its residents.