King of the beach: the Brazilian has been living in a sand castle for 22 years
For the last 22 years, 44-year-old Marcio Mizel Matolias has been living in a sand castle on the Barra da Tijuca beach in Rio de Janeiro. Neighbors and friends call him the King.
Matolias poses for photographers without any problems on his throne near the castle, holding a scepter in his hands. Since King Marcio has no servants, he is responsible for keeping the castle in order himself: the royal residence has to be constantly watered so that it does not collapse. Matolias can't imagine another life.
Compared to the residences of the royal families, Matolias Castle is small, but it offers a great view of the beach. Although there is little space in the sandy house, it is enough not only for a lonely and childless monarch, but also for his hobbies — books and beach golf. Only one drawback of such a life depresses the King — the terrible heat.
Matolias used to live on the street until he became interested in the art of creating sand figures. Over time, he built a house for himself. The city administration has nothing against the castle and even sometimes asks Matolias to make something out of sand on the beach. The Brazilian earns money on his castle — tourists pay for the entrance to the residence of the King, which has become a local landmark. If desired, they can leave books to the King on a special stand near the castle.