Hidden gems in Recife

Hidden Gems of Recife

Recife’s historic center and outskirts contain significant architectural and cultural landmarks spanning from the Dutch occupation to the modern era. This collection features the Kahal Zur Israel, the first synagogue in the Americas, and the Golden Chapel’s elaborate 17th-century Baroque interiors. Artistic highlights include Francisco Brennand’s ceramic workshop and reef-side sculpture park, alongside Paço do Frevo, a space dedicated to UNESCO-recognized musical traditions. From the 19th-century ironwork of São José Market to a former prison repurposed as a craft center, these sites represent the city's diverse heritage.

Sinagoga Kahal-Zur-Israel

Established in 1636 during the Dutch occupation, this is the first synagogue founded in the Americas. The building now serves as a museum and cultural center, showcasing archaeological remains of the original mikvah and the history of the Jewish community in colonial Pernambuco.

Golden Chapel

The Golden Chapel was built at the end of the 17th century and is one of the most marvellous gems Brazilian baroque has to offer.

Oficina de Cerâmica Francisco Brannand

Set in a former early 20th-century brick factory, this museum and workshop houses over 2,000 ceramic sculptures, murals, and paintings by artist Francisco Brennand. The complex is surrounded by gardens designed by Roberto Burle Marx and features monumental mythological-themed works.

Paço do Frevo

A cultural center dedicated to the history and practice of Frevo, a traditional dance and music style from Pernambuco. Located in a historic 1908 building, it offers exhibitions on carnival traditions and spaces for music and dance workshops.

Alberto.. / CC BY 2.0

Embassy of Giant Puppets

The amazing place is filled with huge dolls portraying a variety of famous personalities that seem very much alive! Well worth the visit.

adonis / CC BY-SA 2.5

Sculpture Park

A sculpture park on the reefs of the port of Recife features over 90 sculptures by Francisco Brennand. Definitely a must-see.

Nathalia Verony / CC BY 2.0

São José Market

The place offers all sorts of souvenirs and traditional Pernambuco's handicrafts, such as wood carvings, clay figurines, leather goods, etc.

Mariordo (Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz) / CC BY-SA 4.0

Casa da Cultura

Housed in a 19th-century panopticon-style prison, this cultural center features over 100 craft shops located inside former jail cells. It is a major hub for regional Pernambuco handicrafts, including clay figurines, lace, leatherwork, and wood carvings.

Augusto Stahl / Public domain

Church of the Divine Holy Spirit

Constructed on the site of the former 17th-century Jesuit College, this church features a blend of architectural styles resulting from various reconstructions. It stands in the Praça da República and is notable for its proximity to other major administrative and cultural landmarks.