Recife’s history spans back to the 16th century when it was a thriving trade port overseen by wealthy Portuguese settlers in the nearby city of Olinda. Recife’s strategic location by the sea was coveted by many different countries, and throughout the years it was captured by the French, English, and Dutch, who established Recife as the capital of New Holland in 1630.

After Brazil established its independence in 1822, Recife officially became the capital of the state of Pernambuco in 1827. The city is named after the long reef that borders its shoreline. Today, Recife is a major commercial hub featuring a large international airport, a national railway system, and a shipping port. There are several large universities in the city, as well as important museums and soccer stadiums.

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