Full coverage: 2016 Rio Olympics

The Opening Ceremony was a message of universal harmony and pursuit of peace, and was a reflection of a nation where the world has come together, in an otherwise idyllic environment.

Music is a central rhythm of life in Brazil -- a country that has given the world the Samba and the Bossa Nova.

The Opening Ceremony was a message of universal harmony and pursuit of peace, and was a reflection of a nation where the world has come together, in an otherwise idyllic environment.

Recognition was also given to the many nationalities that have contributed to Brazil's cultural mix, from the local indigenous population.

And for the first time, athletes would carry a gift -- the seed of a tree, to be planted later to create Rio's athletes forest -- a legacy for future generations.

Music is a central rhythm of life in Brazil -- a country that has given the world the Samba and the Bossa Nova.

The Opening Ceremony was a message of universal harmony and pursuit of peace, and was a reflection of a nation where the world has come together, in an otherwise idyllic environment.