Paraty, a historical and natural gem on Brazil's coast, is a unique destination where colonial heritage meets the lush Atlantic Forest. Nestled between mountains and the sea, the city offers an authentic experience, with centuries-old cobblestone streets, baroque churches, paradise-like beaches, and refreshing waterfalls.
For those seeking peace, culture, and adventure, Paraty is the perfect getaway. Staying at the Boutique Hotel Carpe Diem, just 200 metres from the Historic Centre and Pontal Beach, provides a cosy and elegant base to explore all the city has to offer. This detailed guide highlights the main attractions, waterfalls, cultural events, and custom itineraries to make your visit unforgettable.
Historic Centre: A Journey Through Time
The Historic Centre of Paraty is an open-air museum, listed as a National Heritage Site by IPHAN and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2019. Its streets, paved with “pé-de-moleque” stones—named for their uneven appearance—slow down the pace of life, inviting visitors to savour every detail. Colonial buildings with white façades and colourful windows preserve the essence of Paraty’s golden age, when it was a key export port for gold from Minas Gerais.
History of the Historic Centre
Founded in 1597 and officially established as a village in 1667 by Portuguese colonisers, Paraty grew rapidly in the 18th century due to the discovery of gold in Minas Gerais. The city became a strategic port for exporting the metal, connected to the mining region by the Royal Road (Estrada Real or Gold Trail), a 1,200 km route linking Paraty to Diamantina via Ouro Preto and Tiradentes. However, with the depletion of gold reserves and the rise in pirate attacks, the city entered a period of decline at the end of the 18th century.
In the 19th century, Paraty briefly revived as an export port for coffee from the Paraíba Valley. However, the shift of trade routes to Rio de Janeiro following the construction of railways once again pushed the city into obscurity. It was only in the 1970s, with the construction of a paved road connecting Rio de Janeiro to Santos, that Paraty began to emerge as a tourist destination, preserving its colonial architecture almost intact.
Main Attractions of the Historic Centre
Attraction | Year | Description |
| Church of Santa Rita | 1722 | A symbol of Paraty, this baroque church houses the Museum of Sacred Art and is one of the most photographed landmarks in the city, with its white façade and blue details. |
| Church of Our Lady of the Rosary and Saint Benedict | 1725 | Built by the brotherhood of freed and enslaved Black people, it is a cultural and religious landmark representing the African presence in Paraty’s history. |
| Main Church of Our Lady of Remedies | 1646-1873 | Located in Matriz Square, it is the largest church in the city, occupying an entire block and showcasing a blend of architectural styles. |
| Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows | 1800 | Facing the sea, this peaceful and contemplative chapel was built by wealthy women of the time. |
| Defender Fort | 1703 | Originally built to protect the port, it was rebuilt in 1822. Its ruins and powder magazine are of historical interest. |
| Forte Patitiba/Cadeia Antiga | 18th century | Converted into a public library, it is located in Santa Rita Square and offers a glimpse into the city’s penal history. |
| Paraty Cultural Centre | 1754 | Opened to the public in 2004, it showcases local history and the traditional Corpus Christi sawdust carpets, celebrating Paraty’s rich culture. |
Flooded Alleys: During the full moon high tide, the streets of the Historic Centre are partially flooded, creating a unique effect that cleans the century-old stones and enchants visitors.
Masonic Influence: Freemasonry left its mark on buildings with embossed geometric patterns on the façades of two-storey houses, reflecting the cultural influence of the time.
These attractions narrate the story of Paraty, from its economic importance to its rich cultural diversity, influenced by Indigenous, European, and African heritage.
How to Explore the Historic Centre
The Historic Centre is entirely pedestrianised, with vehicles allowed only on Wednesdays for deliveries, making it ideal for walking or cycling. The Boutique Hotel Carpe Diem, located just 200 metres from the centre, is the perfect starting point. It is recommended to begin at Matriz Square, visit the churches and forts, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the streets lit up at night.
Guided tours, available at the Boutique Hotel Carpe Diem, offer historical and cultural insights that enrich the experience.
