Founded in the 16th century by the Portuguese, the town’s history is linked to the sugar-cane industry. Rebuilt after being looted by the Dutch, its basic urban fabric dates from the 18th century. The harmonious balance between the buildings, gardens, 20 Baroque churches, convents and numerous small passos (chapels) all contribute to Olinda’s particular charm.
Criteria for inclusion as a World Heritage Site
| # | ||
|---|---|---|
| ii | To exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design. | All |
| iv | To be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history. | All |
Nearby
Sites
| Name | Since | Distance | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jerusalem Theater | 2012 | 168.8km | site_ao | ||
| Francisco Brennand’s Ceramic Workshop | 2011 | 14.8km | site_ao | ||
| The World’s Largest Cashew Tree | 2017 | 228.3km | site_ao | ||
| South America’s Largest Collection of Weapons and Armory | 2017 | 14.3km | site_ao | ||
| Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN) | 244.9km | site_brutalism |
About the source: UNESCO
Within UNESCO's broad remit, this specialised agency of the UN works towards international cooperation agreements to secure the world's cultural and natural heritage, designating venues of exceptional value as World Heritage Sites.