Located on the coast of Brazil between the states of Bahia, Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais, the state of Espírito Santo varies considerably from its beaches to its mountain regions, all set to a mild tropical climate.
The state comprises 78 municipalities, including the capital Vitória, and has a total land area of 17,831 square miles. With more than 250 miles of coastline, the terrain is characterized by two distinct regions: the low-lying coastal area (40% of land area), and the planalto highlands, with an average altitude of 1,950 to 2,300 feet above sea level.
Espírito Santo state was founded in 1535 by Vasco Fernandes Coutinho. Its people are a mixture of native Indians, African-Brazilians and European immigrants (Portuguese, German and Italian), and the current population is 3,408,365.
The state's cuisine has traditions handed down from its colonizers and native peoples, with some influence from neighboring states. Dishes are based on seafood prepared in traditional earthen pots, and also important are recipes of Italian and German origin.
The state capital of Vitória is an important tourist center, boasting colonial churches, ecological parks, historic landmarks and beautiful beaches.
Serra, the city where ArcelorMittal Tubarão is located, is situated to the North of the capital, among the state's most developed municipalities.
Hopwever, Serra has not lost its tradition as a friendly and welcoming city. The municipality has huge potential for nature tourism, with beautiful beaches, lakes, waterfalls, natural pools, ecotourism areas, and a rich local history and culture.