GOIANIA

city, capital of Gois estado (state), south-central Brazil. It is situated in the Brazilian Highlands in the Meia Ponte River valley, southwest of Braslia, the federal capital. The city lies at an elevation of 2,493 feet (760 m) above sea level. Goinia was planned in 1933 to replace the old, unhealthful former state capital of Gois, 70 miles (110 km) northwest. In 1937 the state government moved there, and in 1942 the official inauguration was held. The city has wide avenues and attractive parks. Goinia is the seat of both the Federal University of Gois (1960) and the Catholic University of Gois (1959). Agriculture (particularly coffee), livestock raising, and nickel mining are the region's most important economic activities. The city is accessible by air, railroad, and highway. Pop. (1980) 702,858.