There were giant screens located along the beach, to ensure the largely Brazilian crowd was able to see the event unfold. Some watched from apartments or hotels, others from boats.
There was also a large police presence to ensure the safety of all those in attendance.
T-shirts, souvenirs and billboards with Madonna's face decked the neighbourhood as excitement built ahead of the concert.
Since she burst onto the UK charts with Holiday in 1984, Madonna has scored another 71 hits, including 13 number one singles.
Some, like Vogue, Like A Prayer and Ray of Light, are era-defining anthems. Others, like Live To Tell and Don't Tell Me, are beloved fan favourites.