Centro do recife, Recife Travel Guide

The Centro do Recife, or Recife's city center, is a vibrant area brimming with history, culture, and performing arts. Situated in the São José borough, it encompasses the neighborhoods of Recife Antigo (Old Recife), Santo Antônio, São José, Santo Amaro, and Boa Vista. This area, scattered across islands and connected by bridges over the Capibaribe River, is a treasure trove of historical and government buildings.Recife Antigo, the oldest part of the city, is located on the Island of Recife near the harbor. It marks the spot where the Portuguese settlers founded the city in 1537. The area has undergone recent revitalization and now features clubs, bars, and a high-tech center known as Porto Digital. The architecture reflects the city's past, with a mix of modern buildings and old structures showcasing Dutch influences and early 20th-century French-inspired designs.The area is known for its historical significance, with landmarks such as Marco Zero, which marks the starting point of Pernambuco's roads. Visitors can stroll along Rua do Bom Jesus, admiring the colorful buildings and the Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue, believed to be the oldest synagogue in the Americas. The Capibaribe River offers a unique perspective of the city, with catamaran tours showcasing the urban areas divided by the river's course.The Centro is also a hub for performing arts. Frevo, a dynamic blend of music and dance, is a significant part of the city's cultural identity, particularly during Carnival. The Apollo Theatre is another notable venue in the area. The culture is a result of the coexistence of Portuguese, Indigenous and African influences.