Recife is the third largest city in the northeastern region of Brazil and the largest metropolitan area. It is the 5th largest metropolitan area in Brazil and the capital of Pernambuco. Recife is also where the Beberibe River meets the Capibaribe River to flow into the Atlantic Ocean. It is a major port on the American Ocean. Surrounded by rivers and crossed by bridges, Recife is full of islands and mangroves that magnify its geography. It is known as the American Venice, thanks to its resemblance with the European city, and is considered one of Brazil's cultural capitals. Recife is the birthplace of poets, writers, composers, and international sports players. The temperature range is from 23 to 27 degrees Celsius, and the rainy season is from February to July. The main attractions of Recife include churches and monuments, ceramic art, Forte Orange, Boa Viagem Beach (the city's most important beach), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, souvenir shops and Carnivale at Recife Antigo. In addition, there are also beaches in surrounding areas.