Pernambuco
Amidst the colours and vibrant rhythms of its folklore, Pernambuco holds strong influences of the Dutch occupation during the 17th century. This inheritance blends with the influences of indigenous, black and Portuguese people, making it one of the most multicultural states in the Northeast Region. Cradle of sugar culture in the region, Pernambuco preserves the memory of its sugar cane plantations: scattered throughout the state, they provide visitors with true time-travel like experience.
In the capital, Recife, the colonial architecture contrasts with a modern and diversified economic pole and includes Brazil's largest technological park (Porto Digital). With an excellent service infrastructure, the city also impresses with its beaches and busy cultural agenda. Recife-native athletes include swimmer Joanna Maranhão, silver medallist in the 400m individual medley at the 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara, and middle-blocker Jaqueline, gold medallist at the Beijing 2008 Olympics, and at the 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara with the Women’s Brazilian National Volleyball Team
Another attraction of Pernambuco state is the archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, with crystal clear water beaches, cliffs, coves, bays, hills, cliffs, caves, tips, waterfalls, lookouts and corals, all within an area of strict environmental preservation. The site is home to rare species and offers several options for scuba diving and trails for hiking.
Porto de Galinhas beach, with its natural pools, is among the most sought-after beaches in the country. Olinda, the oldest city in the state, is famous for its historic and architectural complex and its Carnival festivals, which attracts visitors from all over the world with its giant dolls, rural maracatu, samba dancers and frevo orchestras — a typical dance of the state.
