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This semester, Brazil’s Ministry of Tourism released a curated list of 11 historic cities that are guiding public policies in the travel sector. As part of the Brazilian Tourism Map, this initiative aims to decentralize visitor flows and encourage international travelers to explore beyond the usual hotspots. The selection features breathtaking destinations boasting beautifully preserved architecture, ranging from the early colonial period to the opulent rubber boom.
The itinerary highlights iconic locations recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Ouro Preto, in the state of Minas Gerais, earned this prestigious title in 1980 for its unparalleled collection of masterpieces crafted by sculptors during the gold mining era. Two years later, the charming historic center of Olinda, in Pernambuco, achieved the same status thanks to its magnificent 16th-century religious architecture.
Spotlight on the North and Northeast
The Northern region stands out with stunning landmarks dating back to the era of natural resource extraction. In Belém, the capital of Pará, the vibrant Ver-o-Peso market celebrates 398 years of history as the bustling heart of local food and botanical distribution. Deep in the Amazon, Manaus is home to the spectacular Amazon Theatre (Teatro Amazonas), operating since 1896 as the crown jewel of cultural venues built during the golden age of the rubber boom.
World-Class Events and Cultural Itineraries
A robust infrastructure for events draws diverse groups of travelers year-round. Paraty, nestled in the state of Rio de Janeiro, annually hosts an internationally renowned literary festival set against the picturesque backdrop of its historic cobblestone streets. Meanwhile, in Salvador—Brazil’s first capital—the vibrant Pelourinho district serves as a cultural epicenter, packed with museums dedicated to celebrating and preserving Afro-Brazilian heritage.
The report by the Tourism News Agency emphasizes that these municipalities act as crucial hubs for direct job creation in the hospitality and cultural tourism sectors. These historically rich locations require constant care to maintain their original facades and iconic paving, ensuring their magic endures for generations. The official list compiled by the federal government includes the following unforgettable destinations:
- Ouro Preto (Minas Gerais)
- Olinda (Pernambuco)
- Paraty (Rio de Janeiro)
- São Luís (Maranhão)
- Salvador (Bahia)
- Diamantina (Minas Gerais)
- Goiás (Goiás)
- Alcântara (Maranhão)
- Recife (Pernambuco)
- São João del-Rei (Minas Gerais)
- Manaus (Amazonas)