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Although Recife is the
fourth-largest city in Brazil, it is less modern and cosmopolitan
than its more famous counterparts. Recife and its environs have only
recently become a tourist destination, so visitors are often a
novelty for its inhabitants, especially those of the neighboring
fishing villages. Recife's name was derived from the Portuguese word
for reef, referring simply to the city's situation behind a long and
protective coastal reef. Recife is a major port city, and much of
its energy and culture has its source in the constant influx and
outflow of trade. High rises, colonial churches, and markets quilt
the city with a mix of old and new. Often called the Venice of
Brazil for its many canals, bridges, and tiny one-way streets,
Recife is a wonderful city in which to wander about, letting chance
provide a memorable discovery or two.
The wealthy Boa Viagem district provides a good home base. This
waterfront area is Recife's real center, possessing both the city's
finest beach and a wealth of fine restaurants. Much of Recife's
nightlife is here, as well as in Gracas. From there, the old city
can be explored as well. Beginning at the Praca da Republica, one
can visit the impressive, 19th-century Teatro Santa Isabel and
proceed to the Catedral de Sao Pedro dos Clerigos. After passing
through the colorful Mercado doSao Jose (Saint John's Market),
visitors can wind up a walking tour of the old city at the Basilica
de NS da Penha. Recife's deep cultural roots are notable, and its
traditional cultural activities should not be overlooked.
Recife is one of Brazil's richest places to explore folk art and
craft, including music, dance, sculpture, and painting. Its
traditional handicrafts include clay figurines, wood sculptures,
leather goods, and woven straw, all to be found at festivals and
markets around the city as well as at the Casa da Cultura de Recife
(Recife Cultural Centre). |
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