The Historic center of Olinda has colonial buildings among the oldest in Brazil, built by the sugar cane fortune. While the hill setting beside the sea is picturesque, the historic center does not bustle with residents or tourists, only the hilltop area is a big draw. The state of preservation is a little lacking by Minas Gerais standards, though it is apparent there has been ongoing work; in fact, Sao Bento was closed for restoration during our visit.
Great views of Recife, and the coast of Brazil as we descend for landing.
The breakfast at our guesthouse was amazing.
After breakfast we headed straight to Cathedral Hill (Alto da Sé ). First stop was the Convent and Church of Saint Francis of Assisi and its amazing blue and white Azulejos (Ceramic Tiles), imported from Portugal around 1660. First below is the view to the Pacific Ocean from the Convent.
The Sacristy, one of the most beautiful in all of Brazil.
The Stigmatization of St. Francis
Olinda is a popular tourist destination for Brazilians. On leaving St Francis, we were passed by a jeep tour.
The Cathedral.
The views from Cathedral Hill to Recife are amazing.
From Cathedral Hill we headed down to Rua do Amparo to pick up some groceries; then walked past some very colorful buildings on the way back to our guesthouse.
For a late lunch we had 2 very tasty lunch menu plates at Cozinha Divina Vegetarian Restaurant. Friendly folks there as well.
Some buildings around Olinda.
The Basilica and Monastery of St. Benedict is completely closed for restoration, but we were able to peek inside.
We ran into a wedding celebration procession at the bottom of Cathedral Hill in the late afternoon, then again at the top of the hill just before sunset where they were both taking a break and having a party. Congratulations to Jerome from Germany and Samara from Brazil who met in 2012! Be sure to watch the video (3rd below)
Two Sunset views.
Video: View to Recife from Olinda's Cathedral Hill.
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