The coast of João Pessoa – Where the sun rises first

The easternmost point of the Americas can be found in Paraíba, near one of the state’s most famous attractions. Ten miles from the capital city of João Pessoa, one finds the neighborhood of Cabo Branco, a steep cliff, and the lighthouse in question. Made to resemble an agave plant called a sisal, used to make twine and rope for commercial purposes, the plant is of economic importance to Paraíba (and Bahia, the largest producer in the world).

Designed by a former professor of architecture and urbanism at the Federal University of Paraíba, Pedro Abraão Dieb, the lighthouse was inaugrated in the midst of the military dictatorship, over forty years ago. Just south is Ponta de Seixas, a small beach that is the true easternmost point of the Americas (often thought to be Cabo Branco), and the shortest route to Africa.

Up the coast from the lighthouse, though, is the Estação Cabo Branco, a cultural center with a modern look, reminiscent of the late Oscar Niemeyer’s work…and rightly so, he was the one who designed it! The center opened in 2008 and offers art and cultural shows as part of a social inclusion project.

The best part about all three of these places is you don’t have to spend a dime to see them (aside from the transportation to get there, of course).

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