Olinda
Olinda is one of the best-preserved colonial cities in Brazil and is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its XVI and XVII-century buildings. Founded in the 16th century, today the town presents harmonious balance between the buildings, gardens, 20 Baroque churches and numerous small chapels all contribute to Olinda’s unique charm. Olinda relives the magnificence of the past every year during the Carnival, in the rhythm of frevo, maracatu and others rhythms.
Olinda features a number of major touristic attractions, such as a historic downtown area, churches, and numerous of festivities that are celebrated on the streets. The town hosts one of Brazil’s most famous carnivals. The Carnival of Olinda is a popular street party, very similar to traditional Portuguese carnivals, with the addition of African influenced dances. Many bars, restaurants, artist and craftspeople studios add charm to the old-town setting. The Historic Center is compact and can be explored on foot.
