favela, also spelled favella, in Brazil, a slum or shantytown located within or on the outskirts of the country's large cities, especially Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. A favela typically comes into being when squatters occupy vacant land at the edge of a city and construct shanties of salvaged or stolen materials.

Where are many of favelas found?

Although favelas are found in urban areas throughout Brazil, many of the more famous ones exist in Rio. Rio's Santa Teresa neighborhood features favelas (right) contrasted with more affluent houses (left).

How many favelas are there and where can they be found?

Favelas Nowadays

In Rio de Janeiro, there are approximately 600 favelas, the largest and one of the safest favelas is Rocinha (ironically meaning 'little farm') located in the south zone of Rio and supports a population of 70,000 people.