Recife & Olinda
Despite being in close proximity to each other on the northeast Atlantic coast of Pernambuco in Brazil, Recife and Olinda couldn’t be farther from each other in terms of culture, architecture and rhythm. Recife, the state capital was founded by the Dutch, Olinda by the Portuguese. Recife is modern and progressive while Olinda is timeless, a beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Coined the ‘Venice of Brazil’, Recife is a major port bisected by bridges and canals at the confluence of Rio Beberibe and Rio Capibaribe. The city’s name is derived from the reefs that speckle its coast, visible offshore when the tide recedes on Boa Viagem Beach. Although much of Recife’s colonial architecture is swathed by clusters of glassy skyscrapers, it does offer some pockets of historical interest particularly on Pátio de São Pedro. Stroll around the attractive waterfront plaza of Marco Zero which marks the founding of the city in 1537 and visit the grand Convento Franciscano de Santo Antônio featuring the ostentatious Capela Dourada (Golden Chapel).
Peacefully nestled atop a forested hill overlooking Recife to the south, Olinda is in stark contrast to its commercial neighbour. The town exhibits a charismatic blend of its Dutch and Portuguese heritage with an ensemble of brightly coloured colonial buildings particularly along Rua do Amparo, and baroque churches featuring attractive rococo artworks and ornate belvederes. Browse Olinda’s art studios and shop for regional handicrafts including woodcarvings and paintings at the Mercado Ribeira.
For a more memorable experience of Pernambuco visit Recife and Olinda during the vivacious carnival season. Don’t miss the elaborate costumes and mesmerising beats of the multicultural Galo da Madrugada street parade in Recife, or the bloco’s (street bands) leading a parade of enormous dolls through the cobblestone streets of Olinda.
For more information on Recife and Olinda, or for advice on your holiday to Brazil, please contact Oliver, our Brazil specialist on 01285 885 333.