Landmarks

Landmarks

Igreja de Santa Rita (1722) — the small, postcard-famous church by the waterfront, first built by freed slaves. Low sun on the white façade is one of Paraty's best photographs.

Igreja Matriz Nossa Senhora dos Remédios — the town's main church, its interior simpler than the façade suggests. Come early to sit inside before the tour groups.

Capela de Nossa Senhora do Rosário — built by enslaved Africans, with a carved wooden altar that's more moving than any gold-leafed alternative in the region.

Casa da Cultura — a museum of Paraty's heritage housed in a 1754 merchant home. The inner courtyard, if nothing else, is worth the small fee.

Forte Defensor Perpétuo (1703) — a hilltop fort above the town, rebuilt in 1822 as independence loomed. Easy 20-minute walk for a full-bay view.

Caminho do Ouro — the restored gold trail that climbs out of town. You can walk as much or as little as you like; the first kilometer through dense forest is lovely.

Praça da Matriz — the main square, with the Matriz church on one side and the cobblestone streets radiating outward. This is where every walk should start.

Ilha do Araújo — the closest inhabited island in the bay, reachable by a 15-minute schooner. Fishing families live here; so do a handful of beach-kiosk cooks.