The General Archive of the City of Rio de Janeiro has unveiled a collection of photographs taken between 1937 and 1945 that depict the substantial transformation of the city during a critical period of urban development. These historical images capture various landmarks and districts of the city, illustrating the opening of Avenida Brasil and the subsequent urban expansion towards the North Zone, South Zone, and suburbs. In a time when capturing the urban landscape was rare and typically conducted by official photographers, these photographs provide a glimpse into Rio's past.

Elizeu Santiago, the president of the General Archive of the City, highlighted the importance of these images, as they reveal how Rio de Janeiro underwent deep changes at the onset of modernization. The photographs reflect the arrival of asphalt on the streets of Tijuca, the opening of new roads in Alto da Boa Vista, and the broader urbanization efforts that transformed what were once rural areas into bustling city spaces. This transformation marked a significant shift in the identity and infrastructure of the city as it evolved into a modern metropolis.

Today, in an age where photography is ubiquitous thanks to smartphones, such historical representations remind us of the rarity and significance of urban images from the past. They serve not only as a record of physical changes but also as a cultural reflection of the people and communities that lived through these transformative years. The awareness and appreciation of this historical archive can contribute to ongoing discussions about urban development and cultural heritage in Rio de Janeiro.