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Serra Talhada, located in the backlands of Pernambuco, is known as the “Capital of Xaxado” and offers a rich mix of history, culture and natural beauty.
The city of Serra Talhada has great historical and cultural significance, especially as it was the birthplace of Virgulino Ferreira da Silva, the famous cangaceiro Lampião.

The name of the town of Serra Talhada in the Pernambuco hinterland comes from the large mountain range that rises to the north and ends abruptly in a dry cut – a butcher’s block.
The municipality of Serra Talhada, located 430 kilometres from Recife on the BR-232, proudly cultivates references to Virgulino Ferreira da Silva, the mythical Lampião, who was born there in 1898.
Not by chance, its main attraction is the place where the cangaceiro came into the world. Serra Talhada is also known as the capital of xaxado, a dance that Virgulino helped spread (although he didn’t invent it).
At weekends you can watch rehearsals of the various groups that play and dance the rhythm in the city.
Videos about Serra Talhada and Xaxado
Main Tourist Attractions in Serra Talhada PE
1. Cangaço Museum
The Cangaço Museum offers a detailed insight into the life of Lampião, Maria Bonita and the cangaço. It displays personal objects, weapons, clothing and historical photos. It is an essential stop for anyone wishing to understand the history of the cangaço and its impact on Northeastern culture.
2. Sítio Passagem das Pedras (Lampião’s house)
The place where Virgulino Ferreira da Silva, the famous cangaceiro Lampião, was born and lived.
The house has been restored and today serves as a tourist attraction that preserves the memory of the cangaceiro.
The Pasagem das Pedras site was transformed into a museum in 2001 and brings together photos, weapons and objects that belonged to the “King of Cangaço”. The site offers an immersion into the life of the sertanejo and the environment that moulded Lampião.
The site is located 35 km from the centre of Serra Talhada, on the Virgolino Ferreira da Silva State Highway (PE 390), in the direction of the city of Floresta.
3. Sérgio Magalhães Square
A meeting point for locals and tourists, the square is surrounded by bars, restaurants and offers a pleasant space for strolling and leisure. The square is often used for cultural events and festivals.
4. Culture and Traditions
- Xaxado
Serra Talhada is known as the “Capital of Xaxado”, a typical dance of the sertão that has its roots in the cangaceiros. The city organises festivals and performances that keep this tradition alive.
To the sound of the triangle, the zabumba, the accordion and the pandeiro, the favourite dance of Virgulino Ferreira da Silva, the cangaceiro Lampião, can be enjoyed in Serra Talhada at performances during June festivals, religious festivals or at the rehearsals of xaxado groups on Saturday afternoons, which last about an hour.
- Crafts
Local artisans produce a variety of items that reflect the culture of the sertanejo, such as leather pieces, embroidery and ceramics.
Infrastructure and Services
- Accommodation: The town offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, inns and chalets that cater for different budgets and preferences.
- Gastronomy: The local cuisine is rich in typical sertão dishes, such as carne de sol, buchada, bode guisado, and corn-based dishes, as well as regional sweets.
- Access: Serra Talhada is accessible by road, with the BR-232 being the main access route. The city also has a regional airport, Santa Magalhães Airport, which facilitates the arrival of visitors from other parts of the country.
Conclusion
Serra Talhada is a tourist destination that offers a rich combination of history, culture and nature. With its connections to the cangaço and Lampião, the city has a unique historical appeal.