Curitiba (capital)

Curitiba, capital of grain-rich Parana state in southern Brazil, is famous for its environmentally-friendly urban planning. Here Christina Cavalcanti reports on the city's efforts to extend its success in the face of a growing population. Viewed from the top of the Merces tower, the panorama of Curitiba is rich in visual texture. Skyscrapers stand side by side with one or two storey houses surrounded by neat small gardens. In between, woods and green areas mottle the landscape. Area code: XXX