Page was awarded an OBE in June for his services to Brazilian children

The legendary rocker was presented the honour at Casa Jimmy (Jimmy's House), which Page opened in 1998 and has so far supported more than 300 children.

"The greatest satisfaction...is knowing that I am able to help someone who needs help," said Page at the ceremony.

The 61-year-old set up the project after a visit to the city in 1994.

He was in Rio - Brazil's second largest city - to promote an album when fighting broke out between street gangs, sparking his interest in their plight.

'Solidarity with Brazil'

Casa Jimmy is run by UK charity Task Brasil, and offers medical and psychological support for street kids and pregnant teenagers, as well as food, clothing and help in job training.

"Jimmy is not a Carioca (Rio resident) or a Brazilian, but he has solidarity with Brazil," state legislator Paulo Melo said at the event.

Led Zeppelin is famed for tracks including Stairway to Heaven

The citizenship comes after Page was awarded an OBE in the Queen's birthday honours list in June, for his services to disadvantaged children in Brazil.

Almost 15% of the people live below the poverty line of $27 (�15) a month in Rio de Janeiro, according to Brazil's Getulio Vargas Foundation.

The city is notorious for its slums, also known as "favelas", and high crime rates.

As a result, many vulnerable children end up on the streets, often becoming involved in, or the victims of, crime.

London-born Page is considered one of the greatest rock guitarists of all time.