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Paraty |
Paraty,
situated in Ilha Grande bay, south part of ‘fluminense’ ‘s litoral, is a city
where the time seems to stood still, due to the calmness of it’s beautiful
landscapes. More than that, thanks to the conservation of the historic center,
you have the feeling that time really stopped and kept this real work of art to
enchant the visitors.
Paraty, in the
ancient language tupi, means “sea deposit”, salt water lagoon. Located 330km
from São Paulo and 248km from Rio de Janeiro, between the sea and the mountains,
among the charming of nature and historical constructions, the city joins all
this diversity into harmony, in a cozy surrounding, full of calmness, culture
and joy.
The local architecture contrasts with the white sand beaches and clear waters,
forming paradisiacal scenery, in a private show. During some times of the year,
the water goes up and the sea invades the streets, mixing earth and water, the
sea and the work of men in a kind of a Brazilian Venice.
The local
inhabitants hostess with an unique hospitality the curious Brazilian and foreign
visitors among famous personalities, this is another attraction of Paraty.
As a matter of
fact, attractions are something the city has in profusion. In Paraty the fauna
and flora are protected by lawn, the woods, beaches, island and water falls,
shelter the native species of the region and are the right destiny for those who
love nature. On boat tours, dives or trails, it is impossible not to be
impressed among so many natural beauties. A curiosity of Parati is the cement
used in the construction of the houses was enriched with wale oil.
The great
masonry influence reflects in the construction of the city, in its old walls, in
the buildings and in the streets. Many masonry symbols are found in the old
buildings of Paraty like the triangle, the compass and the disposition of the
colors mainly the blue and white.
Another
characteristic of Paraty is the production of sugar cane rum that was of
significant importance in the economy of the region and is still important
today. From the more than 200 sugar cane mills that Paraty had at that time,
today only a few local inhabitants are still producing in a home factory basis,
aging in large barrels of oak, like it was used to. The sugar cane rum is so
popular in the region that is now included in the local calendar. During the
“Pinga” Festival every August, all hotels and restaurants schedule parties with
music and dance for the tourists.
The climate is
hot and during summer, some showers occurs in the end of the day but, the most
part of the day the sun shines all over the city. Sun, shadow and fresh water
joined with comfort provided by the local hotels and the local cuisine are the
ingredients Paraty offers for an unforgettable trip of culture, history and
nature.
Basic
Information.
Área Code:
24
Population:
(estimated for 2005) 33.062
Time from GMT:
- 3
Local Hollidays
02/28 – City’s
anniversary |