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Marco Zero Square: Recife's Historic Heart

Discover Recife's origins at Marco Zero Square, a vibrant waterfront landmark steeped in history and culture, marking the city's founding point.

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Marco Zero Square, or Ground Zero, marks the spot where Recife was founded in 1537. Situated on the waterfront, the square offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture, surrounded by renovated buildings, restaurants, and shops. It's a vibrant hub with monuments, street performers, and stunning views.

A brief summary to Marco Zero Square

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during sunset for stunning skyline views and a picturesque atmosphere.
  • Explore Recife Antigo for local nightlife and culture.
  • Check local event schedules for festivals and performances.
  • Take a short boat trip to Parque das Esculturas to see the ceramic art of Francisco Brennand.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Pernambuco Crafts Center, walk southwest along Avenida Alfredo Lisboa. Marco Zero Square will be on your left, a short walk along the waterfront. The walk is direct and offers views of the harbor.

  • Public Transport

    From Recife Airport, take the Metro to the Recife Station. From there, transfer to a bus heading to Recife Antigo. Get off near the waterfront and walk towards Marco Zero Square. The total cost for the bus and Metro is approximately R$5-7.

  • Taxi

    From Recife Airport, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Cabify) to Marco Zero Square will cost approximately R$60-80, depending on traffic and time of day. The journey typically takes 20-30 minutes.

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Discover more about Marco Zero Square

Praça do Marco Zero, more commonly known as Marco Zero Square, is the historical and symbolic heart of Recife, Brazil. This iconic square marks the exact location where the Portuguese first founded Recife in 1537, making it a significant landmark for the city and the entire state of Pernambuco. The name 'Marco Zero,' meaning 'Ground Zero,' reflects its role as the point from which all distances in Pernambuco are measured. The square is located in Recife Antigo (Old Recife) and is bordered by the Capibaribe River estuary. The waterfront setting provides a scenic backdrop, enhanced by the colorful 19th-century buildings that surround the square. These buildings, many of which have been renovated, now house restaurants, bars, and shops, creating a lively atmosphere. At the center of the square, you'll find a compass card designed by the artist Cícero Dias, adding a unique artistic touch. Other notable features include a red milestone donated by the Automobile Clube, officially marking the zero kilometer for roads in Pernambuco, and a prominent brass statue of Barão do Rio Branco. Across the river from Marco Zero lies the Parque das Esculturas (Sculpture Park) featuring ceramic works by Francisco Brennand, accessible by a short boat ride. Marco Zero is more than just a historical site; it's a vibrant cultural space where locals and tourists gather. The square hosts various cultural events, including Recife's Carnival parties, and is a popular spot for festivities, live music, and food vendors, especially on Sunday nights. The open space, shady trees, and benches make it an inviting place to relax and admire the views of Old Recife. Nearby attractions include the Centro de Artesanato de Pernambuco (Pernambuco Crafts Center), Caixa Cultural, and Paço do Frevo Museum.

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