Recife City Info

Things to do

Recife, Brazil » Entertainment » Attractions

Recife is distinguished by its many rivers, bridges, islets, peninsulas and pristine beaches. Another major attraction is Galo da Madrugada (in Portuguese: Dawn’s Rooster). It is a carnival block from Recife. Galos parades every Saturday of the carnival at São José (Recife) neighbourhood. It is named in The Guinness Book of World Records as the biggest carnival parade in the world.

Boa Viagem Beach (Praia de Boa Viagem)

The Boa Viagem beach is the main tourist attraction in Recife. The beach is 7km long, extending from Pina in the north to Piedade beach. Surrounded by tall buildings on one side and coral reefs on another side, it is the longest urban beach in Recife.

The main highlight of this beach is that when the tide recedes, small 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 snacks and a drink.

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Instituto Ricardo Brennand

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Marco Zero Square

Marco Zero Square (Praça do Marco Zero) is located in the central vicinity of Old Recife. From here, you can get to see the stunning view of the coral reefs. There’s a green pillar whose crown is shaped in the form of a tulip on the reef. The creator of this pillar is the famous sculptor Francisco Brennand who has his museum on the other side of the town, where you can see some of his beautiful creations.

Rua do Bom Jesus Island

A little away from Zero Marker is the oldest attraction of Recife, Rua do Bom Jesus Island. The Portuguese founded this part of Recife. The Kahal Zur Synagogue is an excellent place to visit if you love to see historical places. Outdoor concerts, which are generally accessible for the public, are held here during the weekends. Praca Artur Oscar, known for its nightlife and Malakoff Tower, a former astrological observatory, is also located in this area.

Capela Dourada

Capela Dourada (the Portuguese word for Golden Chapel) is also called Capela dos Noviços (Chapel of the Novices), is a chapel of the Franciscan Order. 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 artworks.

Address: Rua do Imperador Dom Pedro II 206, Recife, PE Recife, Brazil

São Pedro dos Clérigos

One of the most impressive monuments in Pátio de São Pedro is the cathedral of São Pedro dos Clérigos. Manuel Ferreira Jácome conceived the cathedral’s architecture, 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.

Address: Santo Antonio, Recife - State of Pernambuco, 50020-230, Brazil

Pátio de São Pedro Courtyard

The São Pedro Courtyard got its name due to the same name (São Pedro dos Clérigos) 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 to 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 a residence to the Casa do Carnaval (Carnaval House), Aloísio Magalhães Modern Art Museum, and Visual Arts Training Centre.

Address: Santo Antonio, Recife - State of Pernambuco, Brazil

Nossa Senhora da Conceição dos Militares

A Baroque cathedral is located to the west of the Santíssimo Sacramento, in Rua Nova. The construction of the church took a long time to complete. The structure was completed in the early 18th century, but the church’s brilliantly carved and oil painted interiors continued until 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 Santo Antônio, Recife, Brazil