Recife Antigo

Recife Antigo -- or Old Recife -- is one of the original areas of the city, developed during the 17th Century as a port for the blossoming sugar trade. Politically and economically, the sugar trade was centered in the neighbouring town of Olinda, with Recife acting as the port. Together, Recife and Olinda were one of the most prosperous cities in early colonial Brazil. However, when the sugar trade lost importance in the 19th Century, Recife's port area began a long period of decline. Recently there have been efforts to rejuvenate the port and encourage local businesses to set up shop. There has been some success, however, much of the area still needs a coat of paint or two. A bit more people traffic during the day would help make it seem safer as well.