Verborgen pareltjes in Pernambuco

Hidden Gems

Pernambuco’s cultural landscape spans from the UNESCO-listed colonial architecture of Olinda to the maritime defenses of Recife. This collection features the 17th-century Kahal Zur Israel, the oldest synagogue in the Americas, and the intricate baroque gilding of the Golden Chapel. Artistic highlights include Francisco Brennand's reef-top sculpture park and the Paço do Frevo, dedicated to the region's UNESCO-recognized dance. Cultural hubs like the Casa da Cultura, housed in a former prison, and the historic São José Market showcase traditional handicrafts and local heritage.

Hidden Gems — Kaart

A

Paço do Frevo

A cultural center and museum dedicated to the history and practice of Frevo, a traditional dance and musical style from Pernambuco. The space includes interactive exhibits, dance studios, and documentation archives.

Prefeitura de Olinda / CC BY 2.0

B

Historic Centre of the Town of Olinda

A UNESCO World Heritage site characterized by its well-preserved 16th-century colonial architecture, steep streets, and numerous baroque churches. It served as a major center for the sugarcane industry during the colonial era.

C

Sinagoga Kahal-Zur-Israel

Established in 1636 during the Dutch occupation, this is the oldest synagogue in the Americas. The site now functions as a museum and cultural center detailing the history of the Jewish community in Pernambuco.

adonis / CC BY-SA 2.5

D

Sculpture Park

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

Valdiney Pimenta / CC BY 2.0

E

Convent of Sao Francisco

With its baroque architecture, this building is outstanding. It was built in the 16th century as the first Franciscan convent in Brazil.

F

Alto da Sé

Historic square and scenic viewpoint featuring a 16th-century cathedral, an astronomical observatory, and a restored stone monument. The site provides panoramic views of the surrounding region and hosts scientific exhibitions.

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

G

Casa da Cultura

Housed in a 19th-century former prison, this cultural center features over 100 stalls selling traditional Pernambuco handicrafts, including clay figurines, lace, and leather goods. Each shop occupies a former prison cell.

H

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.

I

Malakoff Tower

Malakoff Tower is a tower located in Recife Antigo, Recife. This monument was built between 1835 and 1855 to be used as an observatory and…

Alberto.. / CC BY 2.0

J

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.

K

Sao Joao Batista do Brum Fort

The Brum fortress has been an important part of the city defenses ever since 17th century. Nowadays it houses a military museum.

Nathalia Verony / CC BY 2.0

L

São José Market

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