Olinda in Pernambuco

Olinda: Historical and Cultural Heritage

Olinda, located on the coast of Pernambuco, is a historical and culturally rich city known for its preserved colonial architecture, centuries-old churches and vibrant arts and festivities scene. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, Olinda offers a unique combination of history, culture and natural beauty.

Olinda is one of Brazil’s most important historic cities, with its valuable colonial houses and one of the most lively carnivals in the country.

A must-see for national and international tourists, Olinda welcomes hundreds of visitors every day who wander up and down its steep slopes and through its narrow streets in search of the exuberant nature and the fourteenth-century architecture that has earned it the title of World Heritage Site.

Olinda’s Main Tourist Attractions

1. Olinda’s Historic Centre

  • Cobbled Streets: Strolling through the streets of the historic centre is like stepping back in time, with colourful houses and well preserved colonial buildings.
  • Casarões and Sobrados: Many of these buildings house art galleries, studios and craft shops, reflecting the city’s rich cultural production.

2. Historical churches

  • Igreja da Sé (Olinda Cathedral): Situated at the highest point of the city, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of Olinda and the sea. Highlights include its exquisite altars and beautiful stained glass windows.
  • Convento de São Francisco: The oldest Franciscan convent in Brazil, it includes the Church of Nossa Senhora das Neves, the Capela de São Roque and the Capela de São Francisco.
  • Church of São Bento: Famous for its gilded altar, it is one of the most impressive works of Brazilian Baroque religious art.

3. Museums and Cultural Centres

  • Museum of Contemporary Art of Pernambuco (MAC-PE): Housed in a former monastery, it has a collection of more than 4,000 works, including artists such as Portinari, Di Cavalcanti and Francisco Brennand.
  • Museu do Mamulengo (Mamulengo Museum): Dedicated to the art of popular puppets from the Northeast, with a rich collection of puppets and traditional puppets.
  • Casa dos Bonecos Gigantes: A room that houses the famous giant puppets that parade during Carnival, with folkloric figures, celebrities and popular characters.

4. Carnival of Olinda

  • Blocos de Rua e Maracatus: One of the most authentic and lively carnivals in Brazil, with frevo, troças, maracatu groups and cultural manifestations.
  • Giant Puppets: A century-old tradition. In 2025, more than 100 marionettes were paraded down the slopes of the historic site.

Nature and leisure in Olinda

1. Viewpoints and landscapes

  • Alto da Sé: In addition to the church, it offers incredible panoramic views, especially at Sunset, overlooking the sea and Recife.
  • Mirante da Caixa D’Água: Another option with privileged views of the historic centre and the coastline.
  • Mercado da Ribeira: Near Alto da Sé, great for buying local handicrafts and enjoying the scenery.

2. The beaches

  • Praia dos Milagres: Quiet, but with limited infrastructure and the presence of rocks it is less suitable for swimming.
  • Casa Caiada Beach: Very popular with locals, with calm waters and basic facilities.
  • Praia do Bairro Novo (New District Beach): A better-structured alternative for tourists looking for leisure by the sea.

Cultural events

  • Olinda Winter Festival (FIO): Held in August in the Jardim Nascente, with music, film clubs, artistic interventions and exhibitions.
  • Craft fairs: Scattered around the historic centre, they offer everything from ceramics to lace-making and embroidery made by local artisans.

Tips for visitors

  • Best time to visit: Carnival offers a unique experience, but for those seeking tranquillity, the months of April to November are ideal.
  • Transportation: The best way to explore the historic centre is on foot. For longer distances, use taxis or transport apps.
  • Accommodation: From historic inns in the city centre to modern hotels near the beaches, Olinda offers a variety of options to suit all tastes.
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