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Olinda, the jewel in Pernambucos' crown

Olinda

By Bonnie Hamre, About.com

Olinda Church

Olinda Church

ArtToday.com
Olinda is the jewel in Pernambucos' crown. Founded in 1537, it served as the provincial capital until 1827, rebuilt after the Dutch burned it to the ground in the 1630's. A Jesuit seminary was built in 1796 and established Olinda's reputation as a center of learning, and the beginning of Brazil's cultural heritage.

The Historic Centre of Olinda is recognized by UNESCO and the buildings there are protected and preserved as a national heritage. The historic center is best seen in a walking tour beginning at the Praça do Carmo with the Igreja NS do Carmo and continuing past eleven more churches, monasteries, chapels and the magnificent cathedral on Alto da Sé. You'll pass restaurants and museums, including the Museu de Arte Sacra de Pernambuco, Museu de Mamulenco with its collection of antique wooden puppets, and the Museu de Arte Contemporañea.

Stroll slowly, stop to savor, and enjoy your trip back in time in historic Olinda and Pernambuco.

You'll find lots to do and see in these three northeastern states. Bom viagem!

Bonnie Hamre
Guide since 1997

Bonnie Hamre
South America Travel Guide

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