Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Olinda
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One of the best-preserved colonial cities in Brazil,
Olinda was founded in 1535 by the Portuguese. Much
of it was burned down during the Dutch occupation in
1631, and later beautifully restored to its former glory.
Magnificient colonial buildings, gardens, Baroque
churches, and numerous small chapels mark Olinda,
which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in
1982. Although much of this historic city lies on a steep
hillside, it is only a short walk up, and the views of the
Atlantic Ocean are splendid. Its narrow cobblestone
streets are perfect for exploring on foot. The highlight
of the walk suggested here is the Praça da Sé, which
features historic churches and sweeping views of Recife
(see pp216-19)
, only 6 miles (10 km) to the south.
The view of Olinda from Alto da Sé,
with the sea in the background
Praça do Carmo
,
the prominent city
square, faces the
splendid Igreja
Nossa Senhora do
Carmo, resting on a
small hill above.
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Convento de São Francisco
Brazil's oldest Franciscan
convent was built in 1585.
When the Dutch invaded
Olinda in 1630, the convent
was abandoned, and
rebuilt in the 18th century.
The cloister walls, deco-
rated with Portuguese tiles,
depict the life of St. Francis.
2
"
Igreja da Sé
,
which
was built in 1535, is the
oldest parish church in
Northeast Brazil. The church
has undergone many reno-
vations over the centuries.
The last, in 1984, restored
the building almost to its
original 16th-century state.
3
KEY
Walk route
TIPS FOR WALKERS
Starting point:
Secretaria de
Turismo, Praça do Carmo.
Walking time:
2-3 hours. Flat,
non-slippery footwear is best.
Best days:
Tue-Sat. Museums
are only open in the morning.
Places to eat:
Oficina do Sabor,
Rua do Amparo 335; Olinda
Sorvetes e Sucos, Rua São
Bento 358.
Alto da Sé
The Alto da Sé is one of the highest points in Olinda and
offers a magnificent view of Recife in the distance. In the
evenings, locals gather here to browse the crafts market,
and eat tapioca and pancakes made from manioc.
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For hotels and restaurants in this region see pp378-9 and pp403-405
