Recife Antigo
Bairro do Recife
The island district where Recife began, with colourful colonial buildings, museums and bars. It is the first stop for exploring the city.
Recife Antigo (Old Recife) sits on a small island at the river mouth. In the 17th century, during Dutch rule, it was the heart of "Mauritsstad". The colourful terraced houses along Rua do Bom Jesus are the most photographed sights, and on Sunday afternoons the street becomes a handicraft market. The district is home to a synagogue, the Casa do Frevo, the Museu Cais do Sertão and a giant puppet museum, all within walking distance of each other. Visit during the day. Stick to busy streets at night, and take a taxi back to your hotel.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Museu Cais do Sertão
- Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue
- Paço do Frevo
- Embaixada dos Bonecos Gigantes
- Marco Zero
- Francisco Brennand Sculpture Park
- Capela Dourada
- Teatro de Santa Isabel