imagineRio is a searchable digital atlas that illustrates the social and urban evolution of Rio de Janeiro, as it existed and as it was imagined. By zooming in on geo-referenced primary source documents which are verified against a modern aerial photo, students and researchers may trace the development of the city's built and natural environments from colonial beginnings in 1502 to the present New Republic. Historic maps, plans, and atlases help students locate convent, military, and other structures at different points in time; users may also highlight beaches, marshlands, and lagoons to track urban growth. As such, this site offers background for more specialized research into the city. More information on how to navigate the site, including a short video can be found here.