Located about 160 km from the city of Rio de Janeiro, Angra dos Reis and its crystal-clear blue-green waters offer tourists the chance to visit a different island every day of the year. The region includes over 360 islands and approximately two thousand beaches covered by the lush vegetation of the native Atlantic Forest, making it a favorite spot among visitors who enjoy sun and beach activities.
However, tourists are fascinated by much more than the natural charms of Angra dos Reis. The destination is home to captivating history and customs, and it all begins with its discovery. Considered one of the oldest cities in Brazil, Angra dos Reis got its name because the region was discovered on January 6, the Feast of the Epiphany, in 1502. Due to its vast history, the city has a rich heritage collection, listed by the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN). Its charming architecture includes large colonial houses, such as the Casa de Cultura Poeta Brasil dos Reis.
Visitors interested in religious tourism will simply love Angra dos Reis. The city is home to many temples, such as the Church of Santa Luzia, which houses a Baroque image of the saint, and the Matriz Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, which features several altarpieces, religious vestments, and images, as well as its own marble baptismal font, donated to the city by the King of Portugal in the 18th century.
And those who wish to learn even more about the religious heritage of this wonderful destination can easily do so. Interesting religious attractions include the ruins of the Convent of São Bernardino de Siena and the Chapel of the Third Order of Saint Francis of Penitence.
The two buildings form a set on Morro de Santo Antônio (Santo Antonio Hill), from where tourists will have a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the local port. The city’s religious history is so significant that, in 1992, the Museum of Sacred Art of Angra dos Reis was built. Located within the premises of the Church of Our Lady of Lapa, the museum contains one of the most important collections of sacred art in the state. It also hosts masses, processions, and other celebrations in which visitors can participate.
There are many different events in the charming city of Angra dos Reis. The Festival of the Divine Holy Spirit (Festa do Divino Espírito Santo), for example, is one of the oldest and most popular Catholic celebrations in the region. The Folia de Reis Luz Divina (a celebration on the Feast of the Epiphany) has been held since the 1990s and is a traditional local celebration.
But note that the cultural scene in Angra dos Reis is not based solely on religious festivities. FITA, The International Theater Festival, is an important Brazilian festival that makes local tours even more interesting and diverse. The event attracts renowned artists to Angra dos Reis and provides a great opportunity for local artists to showcase their talent. FITA takes place at the Teatro Municipal Dr. Câmara Torres, located in the building of the Theophilo Massad Cultural Center.
Last but not least, tourists should visit Largo do Mercado, where the Municipal Market is located. Listed as a Cultural Heritage site by the State of Rio de Janeiro (INEPAC) since 1988, the location houses a market for handicrafts and agricultural products, in addition to Casa Larangeiras, a building dating back to 1822 that hosts performances by musicians, dancers, painters, sculptors, actors, and poets.
Those who have the opportunity to visit Angra dos Reis will not only be able to marvel at the incomparable local landscape but also experience the local popular culture and history. This fascinating destination is much more than stunning beaches. Tourists will also fall in love with its unique cultural scene. It is definitely worth a visit.
Source: Visitbrazil.com