Olinda, located just 7 km (4 1/2 miles) north of Recife, is the former capital of the state of Pernambuco. It was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 as it is one of the best examples of colonial architecture in all of Brazil.

The Dutch burned the entire town to the ground in the early 16th century when they came and conquered the Pernambuco state, and then made their headquarters at the more familiar area that is now Recife. After the Dutch were expelled in 1654, the Portuguese took to rebuilding the beauties that Olinda now holds once again.

The town sits atop a range of hills, and offers spectacular views of Recife below.

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