Olinda

Olinda is a municipality in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, located on the Atlantic coast just north of Recife and part of the Recife metropolitan area. It was founded in 1535 by Duarte Coelho and is among the oldest cities in the country, with a long colonial history that shaped its urban and cultural development.

The Historic Centre of Olinda was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 for its well-preserved Portuguese colonial urban design and architecture. The city sits on hills overlooking the sea, with narrow cobblestone streets, steep stairways, and colorful painted houses that reflect its colonial heritage and landscape.

Olinda is renowned for its cultural traditions, especially during Carnival, when bonecos gigantes (giant puppets) and parades accompany music genres such as frevo and maracatu. The cultural calendar also features traditional crafts, markets, and religious processions that take place in the historic core.

Key landmarks within the historic center include the Alto da Sé, where the Cathedral of Olinda stands, the Convento de São Francisco, and several colonial churches and palaces. The area preserves a dense tapestry of religious buildings, azulejo-tiled facades, and balconied houses that illustrate early colonial urbanism.

As of the latest estimates, Olinda has around 400,000 residents. The local economy is driven by tourism, commerce, and services, with visitors drawn to the historic center, cultural events, and coastal views.