Embalmed heart of emperor who declared Brazil's independence returns to Brasilia

The embalmed heart of the emperor who declared Brazil's independence returned to the South American nation on Tuesday for ceremonies worthy of a head of state as the country prepares to celebrate its bicentennial.

The heart of Pedro I, contained in a golden reliquary, arrived from Portugal on Monday in a Brazilian air force plane.

It was carried up the ramp of the presidential palace in Brasilia on Tuesday afternoon — in line with protocols afforded to visiting leaders on official state visits.

President Jair Bolsonaro welcomed the reliquary as cannon fired a salute in Brazil's capital.

Cabinet ministers and first lady Michelle Bolsonaro also attended a quick ceremony in honor of Brazil's bicentennial.

Brazilians will be able to view the reliquary in a foreign ministry building.

Brazil's struggle for independence was unlike the bloody affairs of other Latin American nations.

While there was some fighting, it was mostly resolved through mediation of other nations and Brazil's payment of reparations to Portugal.

The European nation finally recognized Brazilian statehood in 1825.

Some Brazilians who seek to honor the monarchy's legacy are allied with Bolsonaro, who is running for reelection.

His critics have said that bringing Pedro I's heart to Brazil represents a nod to such people and is an example of the president playing politics with the bicentennial.

He has repeatedly called for his supporters to flood the streets for Independence Day on Sept. 7 and political analysts have expressed concern about possible violence.

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