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Volta Redonda Steelworks
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Industrial site
The Volta Redonda Steelworks, officially known as Usina Presidente Vargas, is the core of the Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional (CSN) and a monument to Brazilian industrial history. Located in the state of Rio de Janeiro, the plant was founded in the 1940s under President Getúlio Vargas and marked Brazil's transition from an agrarian economy to a modern industrial nation. The project was partially funded by US loans in exchange for Brazil's support during World War II. Production officially commenced in 1946, and since then, it has shaped the country's infrastructure by providing steel for railways, bridges, and the automotive industry. Volta Redonda was designed as a planned city around the plant, fostering a close connection between the community and industry. Today, the complex is one of the largest integrated steelworks in Latin America, with an annual capacity exceeding 5 million tons of crude steel. Despite its privatization in 1993, the plant remains a strategic asset for the Brazilian economy and a significant player in the global steel market.
- Location: Brazil
- Top sights: Palácio 17 de Julho ( Prefeitura Municipal de Volta Redonda) · Centro Cultural Fazenda da Posse · Museu de Ciências - José Luiz de Sá
- Nearby: Angra dos Reis (45 km)
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Volta Redonda steelworks houses the Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional, which was a cornerstone of Brazil's industrialization. It produces steel for the domestic market and is a symbol of Brazil's industrial development.
Visiting
The steelworks site is an active industrial complex, usually not open to the public. From the surrounding streets and the bridge over the Rio Paraíba do Sul you have a good view of the facilities.
Where to view it
A good public viewpoint is Ponte do Itaipú, which provides a panoramic view of the entire steelworks. Also Morro do Cruzeiro above the city provides a wide view of the smoking chimneys and halls.
Local products
In Volta Redonda itself there are markets for local products like cheese and cachaça. The region is also known for its metalworking and steel handicrafts.
Active season
Steel production runs continuously, but the highest activity is recorded during economic booms. In the summer months from December to February, there may be reduced activity due to maintenance work.
Nearby
Combine the visit with the historic city of Volta Redonda itself, which has a museum of industrial history. The nearby mountains of the Serra da Mantiqueira offer hiking opportunities and beautiful views.
Geography
Facts
- The CSN was founded on April 9, 1941, by a decree from President Vargas.
- The first blast furnace went into operation in 1946 and was named 'Barão de Mauá.'
- The plant utilizes iron ore from the 'Quadrilátero Ferrífero' in Minas Gerais.
- It is the largest steelworks in Brazil operating through an integrated process.
- CSN was the first major state-owned industrial enterprise to be privatized in 1993.
- The facility features two large blast furnaces and its own power plant.
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Sights in the town Volta Redonda Steelworks (9)
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Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the Volta Redonda steelworks?
Internal plant tours are usually possible for professional groups only, by prior appointment.
What is the economic significance of CSN?
It is one of Brazil's largest steel producers and crucial for the country's industry.
When was the plant founded?
The plant was founded in 1941 under the government of Getúlio Vargas during WWII.
Where is the steelworks located?
It is located in Volta Redonda, Rio de Janeiro state, in the Paraíba do Sul valley.
Is there a museum nearby?
The Memorial Zumbi dos Palmares is an important cultural center in the city.
Volta Redonda Steelworks: where is it located?
Volta Redonda Steelworks is located in Brazil.
Volta Redonda Steelworks: what is there to see?
Highlights include Palácio 17 de Julho ( Prefeitura Municipal de Volta Redonda), Centro Cultural Fazenda da Posse, Museu de Ciências - José Luiz de Sá.
Volta Redonda Steelworks: why is it worth visiting?
The Volta Redonda Steelworks, officially known as Usina Presidente Vargas, is the core of the Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional (CSN) and a monument to Brazilian industrial history.
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