Colourful house in Olinda, Pernambuco, Brazil 1 Feb 2026

Colour feels at home in Olinda. The house seen in today"s image, painted in bold, joyful tones, reflects a city where history and creativity live side by side. Founded in the 16th century in Pernambuco, northeastern Brazil, Olinda grew from a colonial stronghold into a cultural landmark shaped by Portuguese architecture, Afro-Brazilian traditions and centuries of artistic expression. Its hills are lined with pastel facades, baroque churches and narrow cobblestone streets that seem designed for wandering rather than rushing.

© Robert Pekar/Alamy

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