Make it happen
Recife, Brazil » Entertainment » Attractions
- Boa Viagem Beach
The Boa Viagem beach is the main tourist attraction in Recife. The beach is 7 kms long extending from Pina in the north to the Piedade beach. Surrounded by tall buildings on one side and coral reefs on other side, it is the longest urban beach in Recife.
The main highlight of this beach is that when the tide recedes, miniature swimming pools are formed whereby you can walk on the natural coral reefs. Though, it is recommended that you try not to disturb the corals. The beach is famous for its shark attacks all around the world. The walkway has lots of little huts shaped shops, where you can stop for some snacks and a drink.
The coastline is divided into three zones specifically, Piedade, Praca de Boa Viagem, and north of Praca de Boa Viagem. The Piedade is mainly occupied by locals and not many tourists are attracted here. The Praca de Boa Viagem area is mainly visited by the middle class neighbourhood living in the surrounding region. The north of Praca de Boa Viagem is the beach area which is mainly occupied by tourists. Many wealthy citizens of Recife have their residences in this area.
The Recife Coast is surrounded by other wonderful beaches, such as Porto de Galinhas, Maracaipe, Serrambi, Tamandare, Sao Jose da Coroa Grande, Muro Alto, Cupe, Suape, Calhetas, Gaibu, Maria Farinha and Itamaraca Island.
- Zero Marker
Zero Marker is a place located in the central vicinity of Old Recife. From here you can get to see the attractive view of the coral reefs. On the reef, there's a green pillar whose crown is shaped in the form of a tulip. The creator of this pillar is the famous sculptor Francisco Brennand who has his own museum on the other side of the town, where you can see some of his wonderful creations.
Address: Museum: Oficina de Ceramica Francisco Brennand, Av. Cachanga, Varzea, Recife, Brazil
Tel: +55 81 3271-2466
Opening Hours: 8pm to 6pm (Mon – Fri)
- Rua do Bom Jesus Island
A little away from Zero Marker is the oldest attraction of Recife, Rua do Bom Jesus Island. This part of Recife was founded by the Portuguese. The Kahal Zur Synagogue is located here which is a good place to visit, if you love to see historical places. Outdoor concerts, which are generally free for the public, are held here during the weekends. Praca Artur Oscar, known for its nightlife and Malakoff Tower which was a former astrological observatory is also located in this area.
- Capela Dourada
Capela Dourada of Franciscan Order, also known as the Golden Chapel. The two storied arch of jacaranda and cedar is decorated with pure gold. Inside the Chapel the statue of Christ hangs on a golden cross with silver rays shining behind his head, giving the feel of Godliness. There is a small art museum inside the complex, which showcases a few silver and gold art works. Also worth a visit is the Church of the Ordem Terceiro de Sao Francisco whose highlight is its one wall which is painted with an oil painting depicting Franciscan monks getting crucified. Behind the altar, are the church archives made of jacaranda craftsmanship which are really attractive and valuable.
Address: Rua do Imperador Dom Pedro II 206, Recife, PE Recife, Brazil
Tel: +55 81 3224-0530
- São Pedro dos Clérigos
One of the most impressive monuments in Pátio de São Pedro is the cathedral of São Pedro dos Clérigos. The cathedral’s architecture was conceived by Manuel Ferreira Jácome and the structure was constructed between 1728 and 1782. The cathedral is famous for its Gothic styled innovative design. The ground floor, an extended rectangle, is divided into two parts, of which the smaller part is adorned with an octagonal nave. The interiors are designed in a flamboyant style with the pulpit, altars and galleries made of carved stone and doors of palisander wood. This is a popular attraction for tourists.
Address: T S Pedro, São José, Recife, 50020220, Brazil
Tel: +55 81 3224-2954
- Pátio de São Pedro Courtyard
The São Pedro Courtyard got its name due to the church of the same name (São Pedro dos Clérigos) which was built in the 18th century. Before the church was built, all that existed in the square was an orchard and some residential buildings. In 1728, the residences were demolished to give way for the construction of the church. The shape of the courtyard, including the church has not changed much with time. Today the São Pedro Courtyard houses many famous bars and restaurants. Many events such as the Recife Carnival, Christmas, June Festivals, Black Cultural Events and the Sábado Mangue (Swamp Saturday) are held in the square. The Courtyard is also residence to the Casa do Carnaval (Carnaval House), Aloísio Magalhães Modern Art Museum and Visual Arts Training Centre.
Tel: +55 81 3232-2851, +55 81 3232-2864
- Nossa Senhora da Conceição dos Militares
This is a Baroque cathedral located to the west of the Santíssimo Sacramento, in Rua Nova. The construction of the church took a long time to complete. The structure itself was completed in early 18th century, but the interiors of the church which have been brilliantly carved and oil painted, were going on till 1771. Among the carvings, the most attractive is that of the Virgin whose artist is anonymous. The first battle of Guararapes has been depicted on the ceiling by famous painter João de Deus Sepúlveda in the 18th century.
Address: Rua Nova, 309 Recife, Brazil
Tel: +55 81 3224-3106
