The first South American nation to host the greatest sporting event in the world celebrated its natural and national history as the official opening kicked off in the capital at midnight GMT.

The event began celebrating Brazil's past – right the way back from the dawn of the Amazon to the nation's industrial revolution.

With the history lesson over internationally beloved model Giselle graced the floor in a stunning and shimmering sheer drop silver dress to the sound of The Girl from Impanema.

Then the party really got started.