Step into the vibrant heart of Brazil’s northeast where history and tropical beauty collide. Recife, the lively capital of Pernambuco, holds a unique distinction – like its sister city São Luis, it wasn’t actually founded by the Portuguese settlers who arrived in the 1530s. These colonizers initially settled just north of present-day Recife, creating the stunning colonial gem that is Olinda while transforming the surrounding land into a vast sugar empire.
The story takes a dramatic turn in the mid-17th century when Dutch forces under Governor Maurício de Nassau swept through the region. After burning Olinda to the ground, they spotted the potential of the swampy lands to the south. Where others saw marsh, these engineers from the Netherlands saw opportunity – particularly in the natural harbor that Olinda lacked.
Drawing on their legendary land-reclamation skills, the Dutch drained the wetlands and erected a new capital from the marshes. While only scattered churches and fortresses remain from their brief rule, the most enduring Dutch legacy is quite literally the ground beneath Recife’s feet – the very land that forms the city’s historic core.
As you explore the surrounding coast, history unfolds at every turn. North of Recife lies the island of Itamaracá, where Portuguese settlers once cultivated sugar cane from shore to shore. Here, you’ll find Fort Orange – a weathered Dutch stronghold built to protect colonial interests – now overlooking a popular weekenders’ retreat. But the true coastal magic reveals itself when traveling south, where endless stretches of palm-fringed beaches connect picturesque fishing villages.
Explore Northeast Brazil’s Treasures
Alagoas and Sergipe
Ceará
Fernando de Noronha
Jericoacoara
Maceió
Maranhão
Brazil’s Northeast offers an irresistible blend of coastal charm and rugged inland adventures. Let’s explore the must-see destinations:
Beyond the Coast: Exploring Brazil’s Wild Interior
Venture beyond the picture-perfect beaches and you’ll discover Northeast Brazil’s dramatic inland transformation. Within just a few kilometers, tropical coastlines give way to the sertão – a sunbaked interior landscape of dramatic rock formations and hardy vegetation.
Handcrafted Wonders in Caruaru
No journey inland is complete without experiencing Caruaru, home to the largest open-air market in Northeast Brazil. Just a stone’s throw away lies Alto do Moura, where generations of artisans create exquisite ceramics – considered some of Brazil’s finest folk art.
River Crossroads of the Sertão
For those seeking deeper adventure, the twin towns of Petrolina (Pernambuco state) and Juazeiro (Bahia state) offer fascinating riverfront perspectives. These vital waterway hubs showcase how communities thrive in the semi-arid climate.
Traveler’s Tip: While the river towns are easily accessible, extended journeys into the remote sertão require careful preparation. Pack ample water, sun protection, and consider local guidance when venturing deeper into this breathtakingly rugged region.
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