Belem is located on the Para River and is one of the busiest ports in Brazil. Fishing boats and the houses of the river dwellers crowd the waters, while tourists and residents fill the Ver-o-Paso market on the shore. Belem is a city shaped by its relationship with the water.

The Ver-o-Paso market is mainly a fish market, but fruits, crafts and ceramics can be purchased there as well. This open-air market serves not only the city's residents, but also its tourists.