Colonial Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows in Paraty

Panorama of Paraty’s Capela de NS das Dores in Brazil

Panorama of Capela de Nossa Senhora das Dores in Paraty, Brazil

– click photo for enlargements –

With its stunning coastal location somewhat midway between Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, the colonial gem of Paraty makes a perfect destination and not just a stopover. Crystal clear water with white sand beaches on the one side and lush green mountains with tropical vegetation on the other, ensure that even the non-colonial enthusiast will enjoy the visit. For everyone else, Paraty is a perfectly preserved, whitewashed colonial town.

Built at the beginning of the Estrada Real, the Portuguese Royal Street, Paraty was the first shipping harbor for the gold mining towns of Minas Gerais. Later on when Rio de Janeiro became the main port, Paraty fell into decline and therefore preserved its colonial charm. Nowadays the town is best enjoyed while strolling through the pedestrianized cobble stone alleys, or from across the bay, where the small Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows can be seen between the lush green mountains and the blue sea.

Do you like visiting colonial towns? Have you ever seen one set in such remarkable scenery?

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