At the end of the 19th century Leblon neighborhood's territory was occupied by small farms. The area was named after French entrepreneur Charles Leblon (also Le Blond or Le Blon in different records), who owned one of the local estates.

One of Leblon's farms, that belonged to a progressive businessman José Seixas Magalhães, became famous for giving shelter to runaway slaves. It is known to be one of the last quilombos (communities of runaway slaves) in Brazil. Magalhães hid and procted many black slaves in his farm up to 1888, when slavery was finally abolished.

The urbanization of the neighborhood began in the beginning of the 20th century when many prominent families settled here.

During the hard times of military dictatorship, Leblon bars and cafes, similarly to Ipanema, were a meeting point of artists, actors, musicians and other intellectuals looking for freedom.

Today Leblon is one of the wealthiest and chicest neighborhoods of Rio that attracts both locals as well as many tourists.

Tips for Leblon beach:

• Definitely visit Mirante do Leblon viewpoint, situated on the top of a small hill at the end of the beach. You will get another gorgeous view of Leblon and Ipanema beaches.

Song connected to Leblon beach

Song dedicated to the wonderful beaches of Zona Sul, by Willie Colón, a famous Puerto Rican salsa musician: