Pan de Azúcar (dome)

Pan de Azúcar, also known as Sugarloaf Mountain, is a peak situated in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, at the mouth of Guanabara Bay. Rising 396 meters (1,299 ft) above the harbor, its name is said to be derived from its resemblance to the traditional shape of concentrated refined sugar loaves.

Geologically, Pan de Azúcar is composed of granite and quartz. It is part of a group of monolithic mountains, including Urca Hill and Morro da Babilônia, that rise directly from the edge of the water. These mountains were formed by pressure exerted deep within the Earth's crust, resulting in highly resistant rock formations.

Pan de Azúcar is a major tourist attraction, accessible by a series of cable cars. The first cable car takes visitors to Morro da Urca, a smaller peak. From there, a second cable car travels to the summit of Pan de Azúcar, offering panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro, Guanabara Bay, Copacabana beach, and Christ the Redeemer statue. The cable car system was first opened in 1912 and has been modernized several times since.

The area surrounding Pan de Azúcar is also significant. Praia Vermelha (Red Beach), located at the base of the mountain, is known for its calm waters. The mountain itself is part of a protected environmental area.