Natal is the capital city of Rio Grande do Norte. The city has an estimated population of 722,000. Because of its strategic position as one of the cities in Brazil nearest to Western Europe and Africa, an American air base was built in a suburb of Natal during World War II as part of Operation Rainbow, this base has provided support for allied troops fighting in the north of Africa. Thousands of American soldiers were sent to Natal, and their presence left traces in the culture of the city even to this day.
One place to visit is Forte dos Reis Magos. The star-shaped fort at the northern tip of the beach, was built in 1598. It is the city most toured site.