Pedreira, Brazil

Pedreira Paulo Leminski is a massive outdoor concert venue in Curitiba, Brazil, but it’s not a place you’d live. The site spans over 100,000 meters and is surrounded by 30-meter-high rock walls, giving it a dramatic, almost industrial feel. The venue has a rocky history—large events were banned in 2008 due to noise complaints and riots, and it took a R$ 17 million renovation to reopen in 2014. Today, it’s part of Parque das Pedreiras, which includes the Wire Opera House, but the area remains more of a cultural hub than a residential one.

Living in Pedreira isn’t practical for most expats. The neighborhood of Abranches, where the venue is located, is quiet and residential, but the infrastructure caters more to locals than foreigners. The venue’s history of noise issues means you’ll want to avoid nearby housing if you value peace. Pedreira is best for those attending events or exploring Curitiba’s cultural scene, not for settling down long-term.