Although the main industry of Manaus through much of the 20th century was
rubber, its importance has declined. Given its location, fish, wild fruits like
Açai and Capuaçu, and Brazil-nuts make up important trades, as do petroleum
refining, soap manufacturing, and chemical industries. Over the last decades, a
system of federal investments and tax incentives have turned the surrounding
region into a major industrial center (the Free Economic Zone of Manaus).
Manaus sprawls, but the center of town, the Centro where most of the hotels
and attractions are located, rises above the river on a slight hill. As the
