RECIFE

recife in north-east brazil was founded in 1537 by portuguese tradesmen and soon became a main harbour. like olinda, around 1600 it was for a few decades the center of a dutch colony in north-east brazil, but that didn't last. recife is a large city with about 3.8 million inhabitants, and the capital of the state pernambuco. its name refers to long stone reefs located near the city's shores. the oldest buildings are in illha do recife (recife antigo) and the neighbouring area, including the catedral sao pedro clerigos. a former cross-shaped prison is now the casa da cultura. recife has quite a few art centers and museums. above all, it is the home city of an outstanding artist, namely francisco brennand - see special gallery. the contemporary city, a large multifold business place, is crowded with skyscrapers, many are right at the beach.