Map of Recife, Brazil

Recife, the vibrant capital of the state of Pernambuco, is one of Brazil's most exciting cities. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Recife is a city where the past and present coexist harmoniously. It is a bustling metropolis with a unique blend of colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and beautiful beaches.

The city is a major hub for commerce, services, and tourism in the northeastern region of Brazil. Recife's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from the technology, manufacturing, and service sectors. The city is also known for its thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and cultural events happening throughout the year.

Emerging trends in Recife include a growing focus on sustainable urban development and an increasing emphasis on cultural tourism. The city's unique position as a cultural and economic center makes it an attractive destination for both tourists and business travelers.

Climate
79.28
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Healthcare
63.89
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Traffic
204.36
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Property
10.84
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Pollution
69.87
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History and Culture

Recife's history dates back to the early 16th century when it was founded by Portuguese colonists. The city quickly became an important port and commercial center due to its strategic location on the Atlantic coast. Throughout its history, Recife has been a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Portuguese, Dutch, African, and Indigenous peoples.

The city played a significant role during the Dutch occupation of Brazil in the 17th century. Under the leadership of John Maurice of Nassau, Recife was transformed into a modern city with advanced urban planning and infrastructure. This period left a lasting impact on the city's architecture and cultural landscape.

Recife is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, which includes traditional music genres like frevo and maracatu. The city hosts numerous festivals, such as the famous Carnival of Recife, which showcases its rich musical and dance traditions. Recife's cultural institutions, including the Ricardo Brennand Institute and the Francisco Brennand Ceramic Workshop, are key attractions that highlight the city's artistic heritage.

The city's ethnic diversity is reflected in its cuisine, art, and daily life. Various communities have contributed to Recife's cultural fabric, making it a dynamic and inclusive city. Landmarks such as the historic neighborhood of Olinda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the iconic Boa Viagem Beach are testaments to Recife's cultural vibrancy.

Things to do in Recife

Recife offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. The city's beautiful beaches, such as Boa Viagem, are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the vibrant beach culture. The nearby city of Olinda, with its colonial architecture and colorful streets, is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.

For those interested in art and history, the Ricardo Brennand Institute and the Francisco Brennand Ceramic Workshop offer fascinating insights into Recife's artistic heritage. The city's vibrant arts scene is further showcased in its numerous galleries and theaters.

Recife's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary flavors. Visitors can enjoy local dishes such as tapioca, acarajé, and a variety of seafood delicacies. The city's markets and restaurants offer a taste of the diverse culinary influences that define Recife's gastronomy.

The Carnival of Recife is one of the city's most famous events, attracting visitors from all over the world. This lively festival features parades, music, and dance, celebrating the city's rich cultural traditions. Other notable events include the São João Festival and the Recife Jazz Festival, which highlight the city's diverse musical landscape.

Worldwide
Brazil

Quality of Life Rankings

Recife ranks 7th on the Quality of Life rankings in Brazil. The Quality of Life Rankings for Brazil reflect how livable a city in Brazil is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.

Best to WorstUpdated: Dec, 2024

Weather in Recife

Recife, Brazil experiences a tropical monsoon climate characterized by a distinct wet and dry season. The city enjoys warm temperatures year-round, with high humidity levels. The average annual precipitation is approximately 78 inches (1981 mm), with June being the wettest month, averaging 13 inches (330 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (September to November) - Temperatures remain warm, with average highs ranging from 84°F (29°C) in September to 86°F (30°C) in November. Rainfall decreases during this period, averaging around 3 inches (76 mm) per month.
  • Summer (December to February) - Temperatures remain warm, with average highs ranging from 84°F (29°C) in September to 86°F (30°C) in November. Rainfall decreases during this period, averaging around 3 inches (76 mm) per month.
  • Autumn (March to May) - Temperatures remain warm, with average highs ranging from 84°F (29°C) in September to 86°F (30°C) in November. Rainfall decreases during this period, averaging around 3 inches (76 mm) per month.
  • Winter (June to August) - Temperatures remain warm, with average highs ranging from 84°F (29°C) in September to 86°F (30°C) in November. Rainfall decreases during this period, averaging around 3 inches (76 mm) per month.
Notable Weather Events
  • Heavy rainfall and potential flooding during the wet season, particularly in June.
  • Occasional tropical storms or cyclones, although Recife is less frequently affected compared to other regions.
Overall, Recife's climate is characterized by consistently warm temperatures and high humidity, with a pronounced wet season from March to August and a drier period from September to February.

Recife's Political Climate

Progressive

Recife, the capital of the state of Pernambuco in Brazil, is known for its vibrant political climate, which reflects the broader dynamics of Brazilian politics. The city has a rich history of political activism and has been a focal point for progressive movements in the country. Recife's political landscape is characterized by a mix of traditional political parties and emerging movements that advocate for social justice, environmental sustainability, and economic reform.

The city's governance is led by a mayor-council system, where the mayor holds significant executive power. Recife has seen a shift towards more progressive policies in recent years, with a focus on improving public transportation, enhancing urban infrastructure, and promoting cultural initiatives. The city has also been at the forefront of implementing policies aimed at reducing social inequality and fostering economic development.

Recife's political history is marked by its role in the Brazilian struggle for democracy, with many local leaders playing pivotal roles in national politics. The city continues to be a hub for political discourse and civic engagement, with active participation from its residents in shaping policy directions. Recent political events in Recife have included debates over urban development projects and environmental conservation efforts, reflecting the city's commitment to balancing growth with sustainability.

Political Quick Facts
Voter Turnout - 72%
City Governance - Mayor-Council System
Composition - Majority Progressive with representation from centrist and conservative parties
Recent Political Changes - Increased focus on sustainable urban development and social equity policies
Engagement - High, with active participation in local governance and community initiatives
Political Scorecard - Rated high for transparency and citizen engagement
Legislative Priorities - Sustainable urban development, Social equity and inclusion, Cultural and economic revitalization
Public Opinion - Generally progressive, with strong support for social justice and environmental policies
Notable Political Figures
  • João Campos - Current Mayor of Recife, known for his focus on innovation and sustainability.
  • Marília Arraes - A prominent political figure in Pernambuco, advocating for social justice and economic reform.
  • Eduardo Campos - Former Governor of Pernambuco, remembered for his progressive policies and leadership.
Recife

Quick Facts

Population
1,653,461
Median Age
34.5 yrs
Median Household Income
$12,000
Median Home Price
$150,000
Avg Rent Prices
$500
Unemployment Rate
13.5%
Avg commute time
40 mins
Avg High Temps
86° F
Avg Low Temps
72° F
Annual Rainfall
94 inches
Recife

"Key Takeaways"

Recife is a major cultural and economic hub in northeastern Brazil, known for its rich history and vibrant arts scene.

The city's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from technology, manufacturing, and services.

Recife's Carnival is a world-renowned event, showcasing the city's unique musical and dance traditions.

Sustainable urban development and cultural tourism are emerging trends in Recife.

The city's ethnic diversity is reflected in its cuisine, art, and daily life, making it a dynamic and inclusive destination.