Belo Horizonte was founded in the late 19th century. What year did it become the capital of Minas Gerais?
- 1897
- 1900
- 1889
- 1910
Correct Answer: 1897
Correct Answer Explanation: Belo Horizonte was founded in 1897 to replace Ouro Preto as the capital of Minas Gerais. Ouro Preto had been the capital since the colonial period, but the new republic of Brazil sought a more modern city to represent Minas Gerais, Brazil’s second-most populous state.
What is the name of the famous park in Belo Horizonte that was designed by renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer?
- Ipanema Park
- Mangabeiras Park
- Pampulha Park
- Tijuca Park
Correct Answer: Pampulha Park
Correct Answer Explanation: Oscar Niemeyer, known for his bold and innovative architectural designs, designed the Pampulha Park, which was built in the 1940s. The park features a number of Niemeyer’s iconic structures, including the São Francisco de Assis Church and the Pampulha Art Museum.
The Pampulha Complex is home to one of the world’s largest soccer stadiums. What is it called?
- Mineirão Stadium
- Maracanã Stadium
- Estádio do Morumbi
- Estádio do Pacaembu
Correct Answer: Mineirão Stadium
Correct Answer Explanation: The Mineirão Stadium, one of the most iconic soccer stadiums in Brazil, is located in the Pampulha Complex. The stadium hosted matches in the 1950 and 2014 FIFA World Cup, as well as matches in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and the 2016 Summer Olympics.
What is the name of Belo Horizonte’s metro system?
- Metro BH
- Metro Rio
- Metro São Paulo
- Metro Campinas
Correct Answer: Metro BH
Correct Answer Explanation: Belo Horizonte’s metro system is called Metro BH, and it is one of the most important forms of transportation in the city, providing a reliable and efficient way to get around.
Which of these famous Brazilian musicians is not associated with the Clube da Esquina music movement that originated in Belo Horizonte?
- Milton Nascimento
- Caetano Veloso
- Lô Borges
- Beto Guedes
Correct Answer: Caetano Veloso
Correct Answer Explanation: The Clube da Esquina music movement, a significant cultural force in Brazilian music, was started in Belo Horizonte. Milton Nascimento, Lô Borges, and Beto Guedes were all integral parts of this movement, but Caetano Veloso is from Bahia and is not associated with this movement.
One of the city’s most popular festivals is called Comida di Buteco. What does the festival celebrate?
- The best bars in the city
- The best beaches in the city
- The best public transportation in the city
- The best parks in the city
Correct Answer: The best bars in the city
Correct Answer Explanation: Comida di Buteco, which translates to “Pub Foods,” is an annual festival that celebrates the best bars in Belo Horizonte. During the festival, a panel of judges selects the best bar appetizers in the city.
Belo Horizonte is known as the “Capital of Neighborhood Bars”. What is one of the reasons for this title?
- The high quality of beer that is brewed in the city
- The variety of food that is offered in the bars
- The vibrant nightlife in the city
- The friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the bars
Correct Answer: The variety of food that is offered in the bars
Correct Answer Explanation: Belo Horizonte’s neighborhood bars are known for their diverse and delicious food offerings, which contribute to the city’s reputation as the “Capital of Neighborhood Bars.”
Belo Horizonte was selected as the site for the new capital of Minas Gerais due to its climate and topography. Which of these is a geographical feature of Belo Horizonte?
- Located on the coast
- Built on several hills
- Surrounded by forests
- Located in the Amazon Rainforest
Correct Answer: Built on several hills
Correct Answer Explanation: Belo Horizonte is built on several hills, which contributes to its varied and interesting topography. The city is also surrounded by mountains, offering stunning views.
Belo Horizonte was planned in the 1890s. Which of these cities inspired its urban planning?
- Paris
- New York City
- Washington, D.C.
- London
Correct Answer: Washington, D.C.
Correct Answer Explanation: The city planners of Belo Horizonte drew inspiration from Washington, D.C. when designing the city. Like Washington, D.C. Belo Horizonte was designed with wide avenues and a central plaza.
Belo Horizonte is home to several notable modern Brazilian architectural icons. What is one of these icons?
- The Pampulha Complex
- The Christ the Redeemer statue
- The Sugarloaf Mountain
- The Amazon River
Correct Answer: The Pampulha Complex
Correct Answer Explanation: The Pampulha Complex, designed by Oscar Niemeyer and Roberto Burle Marx, is a prominent example of modern Brazilian architecture. The complex includes the São Francisco de Assis Church, the Pampulha Art Museum, and a number of other buildings and gardens.
In the early 1900s Belo Horizonte experienced a considerable industrial expansion. Which of these industries was NOT part of this expansion?
- Iron ore mining
- Automobile manufacturing
- Textile production
- Coffee production
Correct Answer: Coffee production
Correct Answer Explanation: Coffee production is not a major industry in Belo Horizonte. The city’s industrial expansion was driven by iron ore mining, automobile manufacturing, and textile production.
Which of these companies does NOT have an office in Belo Horizonte?
- Deloitte
- Thoughtworks
- Tesla
Correct Answer: Tesla
Correct Answer Explanation: Google, Deloitte, and Thoughtworks are all companies that have offices in Belo Horizonte, while Tesla does not.
Belo Horizonte’s urban revitalization programs have earned international recognition. What is one of these programs?
- Vila Viva
- The Amazon Rainforest Conservation Program
- The Favela Revitalization Program
- The Rio de Janeiro Urban Renewal Project
Correct Answer: Vila Viva
Correct Answer Explanation: Vila Viva is an internationally acclaimed project in Belo Horizonte that seeks to improve living conditions in the city’s poorest areas. The program focuses on relocating families from areas at risk of floods and landslides while maintaining them in the same neighborhood.
What is the term that is used to describe Belo Horizonte’s metropolitan area?
- Greater BH
- The São Paulo Metropolitan Area
- The Rio de Janeiro Metropolitan Area
- The Amazon Basin
Correct Answer: Greater BH
Correct Answer Explanation: Greater BH is the term used to describe the metropolitan area of Belo Horizonte. It includes Belo Horizonte itself, as well as several surrounding municipalities.
Belo Horizonte is the capital of which Brazilian state?
- São Paulo
- Minas Gerais
- Rio de Janeiro
- Bahia
Correct Answer: Minas Gerais
Correct Answer Explanation: Belo Horizonte is the capital of the state of Minas Gerais.
What is the name of the neighborhood in Belo Horizonte where the city’s main financial district is located?
- Savassi
- Pampulha
- Lourdes
- Santa Tereza
Correct Answer: Savassi
Correct Answer Explanation: Savassi is the neighborhood in Belo Horizonte where the city’s main financial district is located.
Which of these is NOT a recognized university in Belo Horizonte?
- Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG)
- Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais (PUC-MG)
- University of Brasília (UnB)
- State University of Minas Gerais (UEMG)
Correct Answer: University of Brasília (UnB)
Correct Answer Explanation: The University of Brasília (UnB) is located in Brasília, not Belo Horizonte. The Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), the Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais (PUC-MG), and the State University of Minas Gerais (UEMG) are all prominent universities in Belo Horizonte.
Which of these neighborhoods in Belo Horizonte is known for its concentration of bars and restaurants?
- Savassi
- Pampulha
- Lourdes
- Santa Tereza
Correct Answer: Savassi
Correct Answer Explanation: Savassi is known for its lively nightlife and its abundance of bars and restaurants.
What is the name of the main train station in Belo Horizonte, which is now also the Museum of Arts and Workmanship?
- Praça da Liberdade
- Praça do Papa
- Praça da Estação
- Praça da Savassi
Correct Answer: Praça da Estação
Correct Answer Explanation: Praça da Estação, which means “Station Square,” is the name of the main train station in Belo Horizonte, which has been transformed into the Museum of Arts and Workmanship.
Belo Horizonte is a popular tourist destination, especially for people who enjoy nightlife and cultural activities. What is one of Belo Horizonte’s most famous cultural landmarks?
- The Minas Gerais Museum
- The Pampulha Art Museum
- The São José Church
- The Lourdes Basilica
Correct Answer: The Pampulha Art Museum
Correct Answer Explanation: The Pampulha Art Museum is one of Belo Horizonte’s most famous cultural landmarks. It is located in the Pampulha Complex and is a testament to the city’s rich architectural heritage.
What is the name of the largest cultural circuit in Brazil, which is located in the central region of Belo Horizonte?
- Circuito Cultural Praça da Liberdade
- Circuito Cultural Pampulha
- Circuito Cultural Savassi
- Circuito Cultural Santa Tereza
Correct Answer: Circuito Cultural Praça da Liberdade
Correct Answer Explanation: The Circuito Cultural Praça da Liberdade is the largest cultural circuit in Brazil and is located in the central region of Belo Horizonte. It comprises a number of museums, art galleries, and other cultural spaces.
Belo Horizonte is a city with a rich cultural history. What is the name of the most famous contemporary dance group that was formed in the city?
- Grupo Corpo
- Grupo Galpão
- Balé da Cidade
- Cia de Dança Deborah Colker
Correct Answer: Grupo Corpo
Correct Answer Explanation: Grupo Corpo is a world-renowned contemporary dance group that was formed in Belo Horizonte. The group has received numerous awards and is known for its innovative and expressive performances.
What is the name of the traditional Brazilian drink that is made from sugarcane juice and is often enjoyed in Belo Horizonte?
- Cachaça
- Caipirinha
- Guaraná
- Açaí
Correct Answer: Cachaça
Correct Answer Explanation: Cachaça, a traditional Brazilian spirit made from sugarcane juice, is enjoyed throughout Brazil, including Belo Horizonte.
Belo Horizonte is known for its “Capital of Neighborhood Bars” title. What is the name of the festival held every year to celebrate the city’s bars?
- Comida di Buteco
- Festival de Música de Belo Horizonte
- Festival de Cinema de Belo Horizonte
- Festival de Teatro de Belo Horizonte
Correct Answer: Comida di Buteco
Correct Answer Explanation: Comida di Buteco is an annual festival that celebrates the city’s neighborhood bars and their unique food offerings. It is a popular event that draws visitors from all over Brazil.
What is the name of the church located in the Pampulha Park, which was designed by Oscar Niemeyer?
- São Francisco de Assis Church
- Nossa Senhora de Fátima Church
- The Lourdes Basilica
- The São José Church
Correct Answer: São Francisco de Assis Church
Correct Answer Explanation: The São Francisco de Assis Church is a prominent architectural landmark in Belo Horizonte, located in the Pampulha Park. It is a striking example of Niemeyer’s modern architectural style.
Belo Horizonte has a notable Italian influence. What percentage of Belo Horizonte’s population has some Italian origin?
- Around 10%
- Around 20%
- Around 30%
- Around 40%
Correct Answer: Around 30%
Correct Answer Explanation: Around 30% of Belo Horizonte’s population has some Italian origin. The Italian influence is evident in the city’s cuisine, dance, and language.
Belo Horizonte is the 13th-largest city in South America. What is the name of the city that holds the title of being the largest city in South America?
- Buenos Aires
- São Paulo
- Rio de Janeiro
- Santiago
Correct Answer: São Paulo
Correct Answer Explanation: São Paulo, Brazil, is the largest city in South America. It is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 12 million people.
The city’s original plan prohibited workers from living in the downtown area, what is the name of the trendy neighborhood that houses many government workers?
- Savassi
- Pampulha
- Funcionários
- Lourdes
Correct Answer: Funcionários
Correct Answer Explanation: The city’s original plan prohibited workers from living inside the urban area, which was defined by Avenida do Contorno, a long avenue that goes around the city’s central areas, reserved for government workers hence the name of the trendy neighborhood “Funcionários.”
Belo Horizonte hosted several sporting events. What international sporting event did the city host in 2013?
- 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup
- 2013 FIFA World Cup
- 2013 Summer Olympics
- 2013 Pan American Games
Correct Answer: 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup
Correct Answer Explanation: Belo Horizonte was one of the host cities for the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup, which was held in Brazil.
Belo Horizonte is known for its innovative urban revitalization and food security programs. What international award did the city receive for its work in promoting a just and sustainable future?
- World Future Award
- Nobel Peace Prize
- The Future Policy Award
- The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Award
Correct Answer: The Future Policy Award
Correct Answer Explanation: Belo Horizonte received the first “Future Policy Award” in 2009 for its work in promoting food security and sustainable development.
What is the name of the major international airport that serves Belo Horizonte?
- Tancredo Neves/Confins International Airport
- Pampulha – Carlos Drummond de Andrade Airport
- Carlos Prates Airport
- Belo Horizonte International Airport
Correct Answer: Tancredo Neves/Confins International Airport
Correct Answer Explanation: Tancredo Neves/Confins International Airport is the main international airport serving Belo Horizonte. It is located about 38 kilometers from the city.
What is the name of the street in Belo Horizonte that hosts Latin America’s biggest open-air market on Sundays?
- Afonso Pena Avenue
- Getúlio Vargas Avenue
- Cristóvão Colombo Avenue
- Avenida do Contorno
Correct Answer: Afonso Pena Avenue
Correct Answer Explanation: Afonso Pena Avenue is home to Latin America’s biggest open-air market, the Market of Arts and Handicrafts, also known as the Feira Hippie.
What is the name of the popular neighborhood in Belo Horizonte where the city’s oldest football stadium is located?
- Pampulha
- Savassi
- Lourdes
- Independência
Correct Answer: Independência
Correct Answer Explanation: The Independência Stadium is located in the Independência neighborhood of Belo Horizonte. It is the oldest football stadium in the city and hosted matches in the 1950 FIFA World Cup.
What is the name of the new stadium being built by Atlético Mineiro in the Califórnia neighborhood?
- Arena MRV
- Mineirão Stadium
- Independência Stadium
- Estádio do Morumbi
Correct Answer: Arena MRV
Correct Answer Explanation: Atlético Mineiro is building a new stadium, known as Arena MRV, in the Califórnia neighborhood of Belo Horizonte. Construction started in 2020 and was completed in 2023.
What is the name of the multi-sport club in Belo Horizonte that plays in the Novo Basquete Brasil, Liga Nacional de Futsal, Brazilian Men’s Volleyball Superliga, and Brazilian Women’s Volleyball Superliga?
- Minas Tênis Clube
- Atlético Mineiro
- Cruzeiro
- América Mineiro
Correct Answer: Minas Tênis Clube
Correct Answer Explanation: Minas Tênis Clube is a multi-sport club that plays in several leagues, including basketball, futsal, and volleyball.
Belo Horizonte is one of the host cities of what international event that took place in 1950?
- 1950 FIFA World Cup
- 1950 Summer Olympics
- 1950 Pan American Games
- 1950 World Athletics Championships
Correct Answer: 1950 FIFA World Cup
Correct Answer Explanation: Belo Horizonte was one of the host cities for the 1950 FIFA World Cup, which was held in Brazil.
What is the name of the small village that was founded in the early 18th century that became Belo Horizonte?
- Vila Rica
- Curral d’el Rey
- Cidade de Minas
- Belo Horizonte
Correct Answer: Curral d’el Rey
Correct Answer Explanation: The small village that was founded in the early 18th century that became Belo Horizonte was called Curral d’el Rey. It was named after a farm established by João Leite da Silva Ortiz, a bandeirante explorer from São Paulo.
What is the name of the city that Belo Horizonte replaced as the capital of Minas Gerais?
- Ouro Preto
- Rio de Janeiro
- São Paulo
- Salvador
Correct Answer: Ouro Preto
Correct Answer Explanation: Belo Horizonte replaced Ouro Preto as the capital of Minas Gerais. Ouro Preto had been the capital since the colonial period, but the new republic of Brazil sought a more modern city to represent Minas Gerais.
What is the name of the region that Belo Horizonte is located in, which is a geological unit known as the craton of São Francisco?
- The Amazon Rainforest
- The Atlantic Forest
- The Cerrado
- The Pantanal
Correct Answer: The Cerrado
Correct Answer Explanation: Belo Horizonte is located in the Cerrado, a vast savanna ecoregion in Brazil. The Cerrado is known for its unique biodiversity and its important role in regulating the climate.