Alcântara – Brazil Travel Guide, Tour Tips and Accommodation

More than a day is needed to appreciate the attractions of Alcântara. This is because the city is home to a mix of beaches and historic buildings. Set aside one day to enjoy the beaches, cooling off from the almost unbearable heat of the city (2nd hotter than the capital) and the next to stroll leisurely through the center, stone alleys, baroque churches with rococo features and the aerospace center.

Study a lot about the city before going or hire a local guide to learn about the city’s legends, of which there are many, by the way. If you want to enjoy a typical northeastern celebration, plan your trip around the Divino or Tambor da Crioula festivals, in honor of São Benedito.

Historical buildings

Historic buildings are nothing more than the recovery of what the city was like, from its heyday and decline in the colonial period. Among the attractions are an open-air museum, ruins and unfinished buildings.

See the gallery of Photos of Colonial Buildings and Ruins

Carmo Church

It was built in the 17th century and was abandoned at the end of the 19th century, after undergoing numerous renovations. This church is considered the most beautiful temple in the city, with a typically Baroque construction (characteristic of buildings of the time) and has an altar with gilded carvings and sculptures that attract attention due to their good taste and rich details. As could not be missing, Portuguese tiles make up the church’s panels. It is on Rua Grande. Next to the church is an interesting ruin. This unfinished space is nothing more than two palaces that began to be built in a dispute between enemy barons to host Dom Pedro II on a visit to the city. As the visit did not take place, the works were abandoned.

See the photo gallery of the Nossa Senhora do Carmo Church

Church of Desterro

The Church houses an immense mystical bell, where visitors can make a wish and then ring the gong three times. It doesn’t hurt to try your luck. Furthermore, the church offers a viewpoint with an incredible view of the island of Livramento. It is located on Ladeira do Jacaré.

See the photo gallery of the Nossa Senhora do Desterro Chapel

Saint Matthias Church

Located in Praça da Matriz, this church began to be built in the 17th century, but was never finished. Despite this, at the time it was home to worship and celebrations. Today it is one of the main visiting points in the city. It was deactivated in 84.

House of the Divine

This house is a colonial mansion made of tiles. Inside it houses altars and objects used in the Festa do Divino. During the period in which the party takes place, the mansion becomes the venue for the event. It is on Rua Grande.

Alcântara Historical Museum

The museum is based in one of the countless old mansions in the city. It is covered in 19th century tiles. The collection includes antique furniture, porcelain dishes, works of sacred art and the well-known saints of the hollow wood. It is located in Praça da Matriz.

Aerospace Culture House

The House, a kind of interpretation center of the CLA (Alcântara Launch Center) brings together models and prototypes of rockets launched at the Alcântara aerospace base. The base itself was created in 1989. The city was chosen to be the launch base because it is two degrees from the Equator, which geographically speaking favors the launch of rockets with up to 40% fuel savings. Before visiting, you watch a video that explains the project and see some rocket models. Entry is free. It is located in Praça Nossa Senhora do Rosário.

See the photo gallery of the Alcântara Launch Center

Rua da Amargura

Rich barons lived on this street. Around it is the Black Palace, where slaves were traded; the mansions of the barons of Pindaré, Mearim, São Bento and Grajaú; and the emperor’s house. This alley is full of legends, some say that its name refers to the slaves who made the journey before being punished. Others say that it was the place where mothers said goodbye to their children who were going to study in Lisbon.

See the photo gallery of Rua da Amargura and ruins