Pernambuco is a northeastern state and one of the first areas settled by the Portuguese. Its cities — especially the capital Recife and neighboring Olinda, a national heritage site — are living historical landmarks of monuments, parks, old houses, churches, forts, bridges and theaters.
Pernambuco pulses with songs, dances and folk art: “Caboclinhos”, “Maracatus” and “Passistas” parade at Carnival; the Junino festivities take over in June; and the “Pastoris” celebrate Christmas.
Its strong culture and natural beauty make Pernambuco one of Brazil's top tourist regions — with color, sound, rhythm and joy year-round, plus some of the most paradisiacal beaches in South America.