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Olinda in Pernambuco
Olinda, situated on the coast of Pernambuco, is a historic and culturally rich city, known for its preserved colonial architecture, centuries-old churches and vibrant arts and festivities scene. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Olinda offers a unique combination of history, culture and natural beauty.
Olinda is one of Brazil’s most important historic cities and boasts valuable colonial houses and hosts one of the liveliest Carnival celebrations in the country.
A must-see for domestic and foreign tourists, Olinda receives hundreds of visitors every day, who walk up and down its steep slopes and through its narrow streets in search of the exuberant nature and four-century architecture that has earned it the title of World Heritage Site.
Here are the main sights and activities that visitors can enjoy in Olinda:
Olinda’s Main Tourist Attractions
1. Historic Centre of Olinda
- Parallel Streets: Strolling through the cobbled streets of the historic centre is like stepping back in time, with colourful houses and well-preserved colonial buildings.
- Casarões e Sobrados: The mansions and sobrados are an example of colonial architecture and many house art galleries, ateliers and craft shops.
2. Historic Churches
- Igreja da Sé (Olinda Cathedral): Located at the highest point in the city, it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the sea. The church itself is a work of art with elaborate altars and beautiful stained glass windows.
- San Francisco Convent: The oldest Franciscan convent in Brazil, it includes the Church of Nossa Senhora das Neves, the Chapel of São Roque and the Chapel of São Francisco.
- São Bento Church: Known for its golden altar, one of the most impressive works of Baroque sacred art in Brazil.
3. Museums and Cultural Centres
- Museum of Contemporary Art of Pernambuco (MAC): Housed in a former convent, the museum exhibits a vast collection of modern and contemporary art.
- Museu do Mamulengo: Dedicated to the art of popular puppets from the Northeast, with a diverse collection of puppets and traditional puppets.
- Casa dos Bonecos Gigantes: A space that exhibits the famous giant dolls that parade during the Olinda Carnival.
4. Olinda Carnival
- Street Blocks and Maracatus: The Olinda Carnival is one of the most famous in Brazil, with street blocks, troças and maracatu groups parading through the historic streets to the sound of frevo and other traditional rhythms.
- Giant Puppets: The giant puppets are an attraction in their own right, representing folkloric figures, celebrities and popular characters.
Nature and Leisure in Olinda
1. Mirantes and Landscapes
- Alto da Sé: In addition to the church, Alto da Sé offers incredible panoramic views, especially at sunset, overlooking the sea and Recife.
- Ribeira Market: Close to Alto da Sé, it’s a great place to buy local handicrafts and enjoy the view.
2. Beaches
- Praia dos Milagres: A quiet and less busy beach, ideal for relaxing.
- Casa Caiada Beach: Popular with locals, it offers basic infrastructure and calm waters.
Gastronomy
- Restaurants and Bars: Olinda has a diverse gastronomic scene, with restaurants serving everything from typical Pernambuco cuisine, such as tapioca, carne de sol and fresh fish, to international cuisine.
- Street Food Stalls: Try street food, including acarajé, bolo de rolo and other local delicacies.
Cultural Events
- Olinda Winter Festival: An annual event that celebrates northeastern culture with concerts, exhibitions and cultural activities.
- Craft Fairs: Craft fairs are common and offer a wide range of local products, from ceramics to lace and embroidery.
Tips for Visitors
- Best Time to Visit: Although Olinda is charming all year round, visiting during Carnival offers a unique and vibrant cultural experience. However, to avoid the crowds, the months from April to November are ideal.
- Transport: The historic centre is best explored on foot due to its narrow streets and hillsides. Taxi services and transport apps are useful for longer journeys.
- Accommodation: Olinda offers a variety of accommodation options, from historic inns in the centre to modern hotels closer to the beach.
Olinda is an unmissable destination for anyone visiting Pernambuco, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture and natural beauty.
Whether exploring its historic streets, taking part in the lively Carnival or simply relaxing on one of its beaches, Olinda promises an unforgettable experience.
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