Auditorium of the Center for Technology – UFPB (“Bolo de Noiva”)
Via Expressa Padre Zé, 643-923 – Conj. Pres. Castelo Branco III, João Pessoa – PB, 58050-585.
About João Pessoa the city in Brazil where the sun rises first
João Pessoa is located in the northeastern region of Brazil. It is situated 2,340 km from Brasília (the capital of Brazil), 688 km from Fortaleza, 762 km from Salvador, 1,900 km from Rio de Janeiro, 2,440 km from São Paulo, 111 km from Recife, and 153 km from Natal. According to the Brazilian Census conducted by IBGE in 2010, João Pessoa has a population of 723,515 inhabitants and serves as the capital of the state of Paraíba. This state covers an area of 56,585 km2 and is comprised of 223 municipalities, with a total population of 3,766,528 inhabitants.
Brazil Map and Paraíba state map. The red point indicates the geographical location of João Pessoa city.
As the third oldest city in Brazil, João Pessoa has had several names before its current one. Initially, it was named Nossa Senhora das Neves (Our Lady of the Snows) on August 5, 1585, in honor of the holy day on which it was founded. Later, on October 29, 1585, it was renamed Filipéia de Nossa Senhora das Neves in honor of King Felipe II of Spain when Portugal was under Spanish rule. On December 26, 1634, it was named Frederikstadt (Frederica) during the Dutch conquest, paying homage to Prince Orange, Frederick Henry. Its name changed again, this time to Parahyba, on February 1, 1654, when Portuguese rule was restored, taking the same name as the province and eventually the state. Finally, on September 4, 1930, the city received the name João Pessoa as a tribute to the State President who was assassinated in Recife for refusing to support Dr. Julio Prestes, the official candidate for the 1930 presidential elections.
João Pessoa, along with its vibrant culture, offers a rich blend of tourism experiences. It stands out as the Brazilian city with the highest number of trees and ranks as the second greenest city in the world. In its historic downtown area, you’ll find charming historical churches and houses adorned with intricate Rococo and Baroque details. This old-world architecture seamlessly intertwines with modern structures, and the Solon de Lucena Park is a prime example, where royal palms gracefully complement contemporary buildings.
Throughout the centuries, the people of Paraíba have cultivated a distinctive culture that is evident in their language, attire, music, cuisine, and leisure activities. The local crafts market is a treasure trove of unique artworks, typically crafted from materials such as clay or wood. Skilled craftswomen create remarkably original knitting and sewing pieces, showcasing their artistic talents. To explore these regional handicrafts, be sure to visit the Feirinha do Tambaú and the Mercado de Artesanato Paraibano.
The city boasts an abundance of well-preserved natural forests, squares, and gardens. One can explore an untouched rainforest reserve known as the Botanic Garden, often referred to locally as Mata do Buraquinho.The easternmost point of the continent of the Americas is located in João Pessoa at Ponta do Seixas beach, where you can also find the Farol do Cabo Branco (Cabo Branco Lighthouse). In close proximity to this area, you can explore the Estação Cabo Branco, a space dedicated to art and sciences that offers magnificent views of the city. The renowned Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer designed this remarkable building.
João Pessoa enjoys a perpetual summer climate with tropical and semi-arid characteristics. The city maintains an average annual temperature of 26 degrees Celsius (78.8 degrees Fahrenheit) and an average humidity level of around 80%. Its beaches offer tranquil and warm waters, perfect for swimming.
Along the shoreline of João Pessoa, there are abundant leisure options spanning its entire length. From Cabo Branco’s beach northward, passing through Tambaú, Manaíra, and Bessa, visitors can find a plethora of delights. These include excellent hotels, public promenades, bike paths, stores selling summer essentials, and lively beachfront huts where you can savor shrimp skewers, beer, and coconut water. On one side of the avenue, you’ll find the city’s most modern buildings, while on the other, coconut trees contribute to the tropical ambiance of the area. From the Cabo Branco beach towards the north beaches, you can appreciate the sunset at Jacaré Beach.
The traditional northeast kitchen options are abundant in João Pessoa. Many restaurants serve salted meat, one of the most famous specialties in Paraíba State. Besides the good restaurants that serve the regional dishes, there are many other culinary options.