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In Paraíba, one of the most popular destinations besides the capital is the town of Lucena, located on the North Coast, 50 kilometres from João Pessoa.
Lucena in Paraíba is a tropical paradise with 15 kilometres of deserted beaches and turquoise sea, which makes Lucena, in the state of Paraíba, a paradise of perfect tranquillity ideal for holidays and excellent for living.
Colonial architecture, untouched jungle trails, lagoons and natural pools in the sea all contribute to Lucena’s unique charm.
Video – Tourist information about Lucena PB
Praia de Lucena PB00:45
Praias de Lucena na Paraíba
Lucena - Reportagem
Lucena PB - Drone
Praia de Lucena PB
Praia do Holandes em Lucena PB
Tourist Highlights of Lucena PB
Lucena is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, rich history and natural landscapes. The city offers a combination of tranquillity, culture and outdoor activities, making it an attractive destination for tourists looking to explore the Paraiba coastline.
1. Beaches
1. Praia de Lucena
The town’s main beach, with a long stretch of golden sand, calm waters and lots of coconut palms.
- Bathing and Swimming: The calm waters are perfect for swimming.
- Beach Sports: It’s common to see people playing sports such as beach volleyball and football.
- Walking: Ideal for long walks and runs along the seafront.
2. Costinha Beach
A quiet, less busy beach with clear waters and fine sand.
- Fishing: Popular with locals and visitors alike.
- Relaxation: Perfect for those seeking a more serene and secluded environment.
3. Holandês Beach
Known for its warm waters and cosy atmosphere, this beach is excellent for families.
- Bathing and Swimming: Ideal for children due to its calm waters.
- Leisure: Areas shaded by coconut trees, perfect for picnics.
4. Ponta de Lucena Beach
A beach with stunning views and a wilder atmosphere, perfect for nature lovers.
- Hikes: Exploring the dunes and native vegetation.
- Photography: Excellent photo opportunities due to the natural beauty.
2. Sights and Activities in Lucena
1. Ruins of the Church of Nossa Senhora do Bonsucesso
- Location: Near the Miriri River, in the district of Bonsucesso, in Lucena.
- History: Built in the 18th century, the church is one of the most important landmarks of colonial architecture in Lucena. It was built by priests of the Carmelite order and is a testimony to the religious and cultural history of the region.
Architectural Features
- Stone and Lime Structure: The construction uses traditional techniques of the time, with thick stone and lime walls.
- Ornamental Details: Despite its state of ruin, it is still possible to observe ornamental details characteristic of the Baroque period, such as niches and carved ornaments on the façade.
- Interior: The interior of the church, although in ruins, offers an idea of the original grandeur, with large spaces and altars that were once decorated with sacred art.
2. Chapel of Our Lady of Guia
- Location: Located in the centre of Lucena.
- History: This chapel, dating from the colonial period, is dedicated to Our Lady of Guia, the town’s patron saint.
Architectural Features
- Simple façade: The chapel’s façade is typical of the Brazilian colonial style, with simple lines and a small bell tower.
- Wooden Door: The entrance door is made of solid wood, crafted with rustic details that reflect the simplicity and beauty of colonial craftsmanship.
- Interior: The chapel’s interior is modest, with a main altar dedicated to Our Lady of Guia, adorned with traditional religious elements.
3. Colonial mansions
- Location: Scattered around the historic centre of Lucena and near the waterfront.
- History: Many mansions date from the 18th and 19th centuries, reflecting the prosperity of the time when Lucena was an important trading post.
Architectural Features
- Taipa and Wooden Structures: Many mansions are built using traditional taipa de pilão and wooden techniques, typical of the colonial period.
- Windows and Doors: The windows and doors of the mansions feature detailed woodwork, with wrought iron railings.
- Varandas and Balconies: Some buildings have balconies and balconies with wooden or iron balusters, which add a special charm to the architecture.
- Colonial Tile Roofs: The roofs are made of colonial tiles, arranged in gables, a characteristic element of the architecture of the time.
4. Miriri River Estuary
The meeting of the Miriri River with the sea creates a beautiful estuary, rich in biodiversity.
- Boat trips: Explore the estuary and observe the local fauna.
- Fishing: Popular activity in the area.
3. Bom Sucesso Viewpoint
After a short walk, you can reach the top of a cliff that offers one of the most beautiful views of the North Coast. From the viewpoint, tourists have a view of almost the entire length of Lucena’s beaches, the mouth of the Camaçari River and the meeting of the Miriri River with the sea.
3. Cultural Events
1. Feast of Our Lady of Guia
Celebrated in September, this is one of the city’s most important religious festivals, attracting many visitors.
- Procissions and Masses: Religious events that are part of the celebration.
- Fairs and Festivities: Typical food, music and cultural performances.
4. Tips for Visiting Lucena
1 Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lucena is during the dry season, which runs from September to March, when the weather is more pleasant and the rains are less frequent.
2. Transport
- How to get there: Lucena is located approximately 40 kilometres from João Pessoa. You can get there by car or bus from the capital.
- Local Transport: Hire cars and taxis are options for travelling between the beaches and attractions of the town.
5. Accommodation
Lucena offers a variety of inns and hotels to suit different budgets and preferences, many of them close to the main beaches.
6. History of the town of Lucena in Paraíba
Its first inhabitants were the Portuguese, who passed through in 1596. At the time of the occupation, the Dutch army made a landing there and was unsuccessful.
The town was used as a harbour for French caravels, which smuggled brazilwood with the support of the Potiguares Indians.
Lucena was a district of Santa Rita and gained political emancipation through Law 2664 of 22 December 1961. The official installation of the municipality took place on the 29th of the same month.
7. Characteristics of the municipality of Lucena
The municipality of Lucena is made up of seven beaches. It’s a town with all the infrastructure and a population of around 15,000 – during the four days of Carnival, it can reach 60,000 people.
All of its beaches are calm and ideal for swimming and fishing. There are raft trips to discover the fish pens that are uncovered at low tide.
There are places suitable for diving, canoeing and various water sports. In Bonsucesso, which is an extension of Praia de Lucena, you can see the ruins of the Bonsucesso Church (16th century), supported by a game tree.
The natural beauty of the white sands is the ideal place to have a beer and eat fresh seafood. During Carnival, the town is packed and the entertainment is total.
