Teresópolis

Teresópolis, city, central Rio de Janeiro estado (state), southwestern Brazil. It lies in the Órgãos Mountains at 2,959 feet (902 metres) above sea level, about 35 miles (56 km) north-northeast of the city of Rio de Janeiro. Named for the Brazilian empress Teresa Cristina in 1890 and originally spelled Therezópolis, it was given city status in 1893. A cool climate and picturesque setting amid mountain peaks such as the Dedo de Deus (“Finger of God”) make the city a popular summer resort. Scenic waterfalls are located nearby. Flowers are grown in the region, and fruits and vegetables are shipped to the Rio de Janeiro metropolitan area. Furniture is manufactured in Teresópolis, and the city is also known for its bakeries and clothing factories. In January 2011, mudslides caused by torrential rain devastated large swaths of the city, leaving thousands homeless and killing more than 200 people. Pop. (2010) 163,746.