Alagoas
Alagoas
is the second smallest of the Northeastern States, and most of
its beauty spots and points of interest can be found along a 230
km coastline of dazzling blue seas, fringed by countless coconut
groves, and also plantations. There are exceptions though, in
small towns of historical importance, that are in the hot, dry,
sertão hinterland.
The
grand São Francisco River provides the natural Southern
border with Sergipe and Bahia and is navigable for 180 km
upstream, as far as the Xingó hydroelectric power
station, which is on the Sergipe side. In Alagoas, the river
passes two before it flows into the Atlantic Ocean. These are
Piranhas and Penedo. All riverbank communities are permeated in
old customs and traditions characteristic and unique of the
lower São Francisco River basin. Some of Brazil’s
colonial history can also be traced into the semi-arid backlands
of Alagoas, most importantly that which tells of the first
run-away slave dominion, that was started in the early 17th
century, called the Quilombo dos Palmares nation, and the
countless mucambo villages that come under its rule.
The
Northern coastline, all the way up to Pernambuco, is quite
different, and has long stretches of coral reefs that act as
barriers against the waves which makes for the calm and warm
waters on those shores, ideal for bathing and other recreational
opportunities. Specially the natural pools, formed by the reefs,
are greatly enjoyed by sun and sea lovers.
