Olinda

Welcome to the historic heights of Oh-leen-dah, a city that serves as a living chronicle of Brazil’s colonial past. As we stand here on this lush, tropical hill, we are looking out over a landscape that was first sighted by…

We stand now at the highest point of the city, the Ahl-toh dah Seh. This is the spiritual heart of Olinda and the site of its first parish church, the Cathedral of San Salvador. …

As we descend the hill, we arrive at the Monastery of Saint Benedict, known locally as Mos-tay-ree-oo jee Sah-oo Ben-toh. This site is arguably the most significant architectural treasure in the city. …

Our path now brings us to the Mer-kah-doh dah Ree-bay-rah, a 16th-century structure that highlights a darker chapter of Olinda’s history. Today, this arched building is a hub for local artisans, where you can find beautiful wood…

We now approach a large, historic house that stands as a landmark of modern cultural significance. This is the residence of Al-seh-oo Vah-lehn-sah, one of Brazil’s most beloved musicians and a true icon of Pernambuco. …

To truly understand the soul of Olinda, one must understand its Carnival. We are now near the Museum of the Giant Dolls, or Bo-neh-kohs jee Oh-leen-dah. …

We find ourselves now on the Roo-ah doh Ahm-pah-roh, one of the most picturesque and artistically dense streets in Olinda. As you walk along this narrow lane, take note of the vibrant facades of the houses, each one a different…

As we conclude our journey through Oh-leen-dah, take one last look from the hillside toward the sea. We have traveled from the founding moments of 1535, through the fires of the Dutch invasion, and into the vibrant, artistic…