|
|
 |
|
|
Sao Luis Brazil
|
|
|
|
Sao Luis, Brazil, with a population of over 1,000,000 people, is the capital of the state of
Maranhao and the 16th largest city in Brazil. It is located on Sao Luis Island, an island that
sits on St Marcus Bay which flows into the Atlantic Ocean. As an island city, its sea ports
play a major role in importing and exporting goods to other regions of Brazil and the
world. One of only three Brazilian capitals that’s located on an island, Sao Luis has the
romantic history and influences of a small quaint city, yet it has a very metropolitan
lifestyle.
Sao Luis was originally founded by the French in 1612, and three years later, in 1615, it
was conquered by Portugal. Portuguese and Latin American influences are heavily
reflected throughout the city, particularly in the architecture. Sao Luis boasts the largest
collection of historical preserved Portuguese architecture in Latin America, with building
facades covered in beautiful Portuguese tiles from the past. Journey down any street in the
city and you will see rows of beautifully tiled houses that are part of over 3500 buildings
listed on a Cultural Heritage Register. These buildings have been preserved for hundreds
of years and represent a significant portion of the city’s history. Some of the buildings that
are most notable include the Arthur Azevedo Theater, an example of neo-Classic
architecture built in 1817; the Granary House, built in 1820 that now serves as a market
center; and the Center for Popular Culture, a 19th century home that now houses famous
collections of costumes and art objects.
Sao Luis, like many Brazilian cities, hosts numerous carnivals and festivals throughout the
year. There are parties and festivals thrown in honor of Saint Anthony and Saint Peter,
among other Saints, that provide dancing, fireworks and fun festivities. In June, Sao Luis
celebrates the bumba-meu-boi, a famous carnival with costumed dancers that portray a
legacy of folklore tradition in the area. New Year’s Eve hosts parades and parties that line
the beaches in the city with brilliant colorful fireworks that make beautiful reflections in the
bay. During the day, the beaches here are great for surfing the large waves, and from July
to December sailing is the most popular sport because of the strong winds that come into the
bay from the Atlantic. The climate in Sao Luis is hot all year, and Brazilians enjoy the constant
warm sun that makes outdoor activities a daily part of the lifestyle here.
The city has numerous hotels and restaurants located in the cultural center of the city and
along the beaches that offer great food and nightlife activities. As a port city, Sao Luis
has an abundance of fresh seafood, the staple food of the area, that is prepared stewed,
baked, broiled, in casseroles and stews, and any other way imaginable. Shopping for local
handicrafts such as rugs, lace, ceramics and antiques keeps visitors busy looking for that
special treasure that is part of the city’s ancient history. Sao Luis is a beautiful Brazilian
city with a warm pleasant climate and warm friendly people that deserves attention, and
perhaps a visit.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Not what you were looking for?
Search Google and Beachcomber Pete
|
|
|
|
Who in the World is Checking out ?
Beachcomber Pete
|
|
Periodic issues- Free advice and suggestions for making your next travel adventure more enjoyable.
