Main attractions outside São Luís Historic Centre

Madre Deus Neighbourhood: Always lively, the bohemian neighbourhood of Madre Deus stands out for being a hotbed of popular art, and the stage for folklore and artistic events from Maranhão’s popular culture. During the week there are gatherings, performances, and concerts by local artists, both in trendy bars and on neighbourhood streets. During the carnival, the neighbourhood turns into party central, when thousands of revellers flock to its streets and squares to celebrate.

Casa das Minas: The oldest yard, Tambor de Mina de São Luís, was created in 1840 by African slaves from Dahomey, now the Republic of Benin.  It’s a strictly matriarchal community, headed exclusively by women.

Alcântara

Surrounded by beaches and deserted islands, Alcântara was the first Maranhão municipality listed by the Institute of National Historical and Artistic Heritage, back in 1948. Previously inhabited by Barons, Alcântara maintains the sense of its glorious and rich past in its historic centre.

The highlights of the tour, which can all be enjoyed on foot, are the ruins of the Igreja da Matriz (Church), the old jail, the pillory, and the colonial churches, as well as beautiful fountains and museums.

Access: The easiest way to reach Alcântara is by crossing the San Marcos Bay, by speedboat or catamaran. Crossing times vary with the tides.

Useful information

Throughout the historic centre of Alcântara the pavement is made of stone. Some of the slopes, such as the Jacaré at the city’s entrance, require a little effort to traverse. Sunscreen, light clothing and sandals or flat shoes are recommended.

Attractions:

Praça da Matriz: Surrounded by elegant colonial buildings, Praça da Matriz is the stage for the city’s social events, and is home to the Mayor, City Council, Notary Municipal Forum, as well as the city’s museums. To this day, it also retains the pillory used in the times of slavery.

Casa do Divino: This museum is a must-see, displaying objects connected to the Divino Espírito Santo, the traditional and most important religious festival of the city.

Town Hall and Jail: The current Town Hall and City Council Headquarters of Alcântara, the building housed the State Penitentiary until the mid-twentieth century. It is not known precisely when it was constructed.

Historical Artistic Museum of Alcântara: Housed in a 19th century colonial mansion, and coated in a facade of Portuguese mosaics, the museum exhibits paintings, pieces of furniture, tableware, decorative objects, jewellery and religious art from the 17th to 19th centuries.

Catholic churches that cannot to be missed: Nossa Senhora Do Carmo Church and Convent, the ruins of the São Mathias Church, and the Nossa Senhora do Rosário dos Pretos Church, also known as the Galo Church, which in August hosts one of the most important celebrations of the city - the feast of St. Benedict!

Fonte das Pedras: Built in the 18th century for water supply, this fountain resides in the Rua Pequena, and is most known for its beautiful lines and the simplicity of its style.