the commerce of precious stones with Brazilians and foreign visitors Governador Valadares is the biggest city and commercial center of the Eastern region of the state of Minas Gerais, having several cities in its area of influence, such as Teófilo Otoni and Caratinga. At present, Governador Valadares is growing in industrial development, due to its strategic position, human resources and international reputation. It is a trade and industrial center. Sawmills and food-processing plants are in the city, and mica and beryl are mined in the area. Governador Valadares is one of the most famous gem-trading centres in Brazil. Gem minerals include amethyst, chrysoberyl, brazilianite, topaz and quartz. The Golconda mine, one of the oldest in the city, attracts the curiosity of tourists and stone collectors from all over the world. Transportation The city is served by the railroad Vitória-Minas, of Vale S.A. and by the highway Rio-Bahia (BR-116). It is also connected with the capital of the state by the BR-381. The city is on the Belo Horizonte–Vitória railway and on the Rio de Janeiro–Salvador highway. Distances from major centers: Belo Horizonte – 311 km Rio de Janeiro – 580 km São Paulo – 891 km Brasília – 1,045 km Vitória – 420 km Sport The city hosts of one of the stages of the Brazilian hang gliding championship from the peak of Ibituruna, where it is possible to catch sight of the whole valley of Rio Doce. It also hosts several international hang gliding championships. The city is known internationally for the World Paragliding Championships that has been held at Ibituruna Peak (1123 meters). Climate Temperature: Annual average: 32.6 °C [90.7 °F] Annual maximum average: 40.7 °C [105.3 °F] Annual minimum average: 18.3 °C [65 °F] Average annual rainfall index: 1,350 mm Sister cities Governador Valadares is twinned with the following cities: Framingham, Massachusetts, United States Everett, Massachusetts, United States Newark, New Jersey, United States Bridgeport, Connecticut, United States Notable people Ernane Rezende Borges Ferreira, footballer. Eike Batista, entrepreneur. References External links Portal de Governador Valadares Official city government site City Brazil-Governador Valadares Governador Valadares Municipalities in Minas Gerais Populated places established in 1808