Founded in
the 16th century by the Portuguese, the town's history is linked to the sugar-cane
industry. Olinda was the first capital of the province of Pernambuco. Rebuilt after being
destroyed by the Dutch, its basic urban town dates from the 18th century. The harmonious
balance between the buildings, gardens, 20 Baroque churches, convents and numerous small
chapels all contribute to Olinda's particular charm. The historic center of Olinda is
since 1982 in the World Heritage list of UNESCO. Olinda is a place for walks on the
streets, visit to churches and museums and observation of scenarios, which mixed blue sea,
green vegetation and historical buildings. Olinda has churches rich in ornaments and cuts
and also single chapels. Most of them were built in XVI and XVII centuries and shows
baroque images and architecture. Among them are Mosteiro de São Bento that has a gold
foliated altar and Convento de São Francisco that is part of the collection. The
Cathedral (Sé) is in a place with a privileged view over the entire old town.
Mosteiro de São Bento, Olinda. Built in
1582, this church is said to be the richest in the city.
A street of Olinda.
Igreja de São Pedro Apóstolo, Olinda.
This church was build at the end of the XVII century.
A view of Olinda with Recife on the
background.
Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Carmo, Olinda.
This was probably the first church in Brazil by the Carmelitan Order, it was built around
1580-1620. It was rebuilt in XVIII century.
A view of Olinda with Recife on the
background.
Catedral da Sé, Olinda. Originally built
in 1537, later rebuild, the Cathedral (Sé) is in a place with a privileged view over the
entire old town.
Sacresty, Catedral da Sé, Olinda.
Convento de São Francisco. Built in 1577,
this was the first Franciscan monastery in Brazil. The complex is formed by the Igreja de
Nossa Senhora das Neves, the Capela de São Roque and the claustro de azulejos.
