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Santarém is a town in the state of Pará in Brazil. The Tapajós joins the Amazon River there, and it is a popular location for tourism. It was once home to the Tapajós Indians, a tribe of Native Americans after which the river was named and known to have some unusual practices. It is mainly reached by boat.
The base of Santarém's economy is agriculture, cattle and mining. The city has seen many 'cycles' of development, including rubber, coffee and gold. Most recently, there has been a huge growth is the area of soy plantations.
The population of Santarém claims for the creation of a new state in Brasil. This state would be called Tapajós, and would consist of the western side of Pará. It's capital city would be Santarém, of course.
Santarém is bordered by the Amazon and the Tapajós rivers. Both run along by many kilometers in the front of the city, side by side, without ever mixing. The Amazon's water is colder, earth-colored, while the Tapajós's water is somewhat warmer and has a deep-blue tone. Besides the waters This phenomenon is called "The meeting of the waters" by the locals.
Another popular place for tourism is the village of Alter do Chăo, which is located by the Tapajós river, about 30 km form Santarém. It can be reached by car (about half an hour) or by boat (one or more hours, depending on the boat).
Santarém is also a city in Portugal.
External links
- Embassy of Brazil in London: Santarém (http://www.brazil.org.uk/page.php?cid=356&offset=2)