The port at Recife Antigo was once the busiest in all of the Americas. It’s where the Portuguese initially settled in the 16th century, and later, the Jewish community. Today, it is at once the city’s most important historical centre, and the site of the city’s night-time debauchery, full of excellent bars and nightclubs. During the daytime, Sunday, there is a lively market of quality artisanry in dresses, jewellery and ceramics.

Sights to see:

• Madre de Deus (Mother of God) Church
• Military Museum (Museu Militar)
• Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue – the first synagogue in the Americas
• Malakoff Tower Cultural Obseratory (Torre Malakoff)
• Paco Alfandega Shopping Mall
• Downtown Pub – a British themed pub
• Marco Zero – the founding spot of the city
• Paco de Frevo

The last Sunday of the month in the Antigo is something of a party. Altogether, the Antigo is Recife’s most charming quarter.

• Buses 117, 411, 513, 1900, 1911, 1926, 1927, 1946, 1958, 1967, 1971, 1973, 1976, 1983, 1992 stop Teatro Hermilio Barbosa Filho
• Buses 100, 107, 411, 414, 513, 611 stop Ef Escola De Magistratura Federal

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