Because the country of Brazil is the fifth largest on the planet, its government defines it by regions. There are five distinct regions in Brazil, some marked simply by the borderlines of the various states within the region, and some distinguished by cultural, geographic or economic lines. The area known as the Northeast of Brazil is defined by nine states, each remarkably different from the other.

Features that seem to define the overall region are the weather patterns and the affects of history on the entire region. The Northeast is known as the hottest and sunniest location in Brazil, this is the reason so many flock to its near perfect beaches and resort areas. Additionally, the region is defined by the impact of initial European settlement. European colonization began in the Bahia state of Northeast Brazil, and soon the slave trade was based there as well. This meant the importation of millions of African natives to the area, which has created the diverse and fascinating culture of the entire Northeast region today.

Historically the region was also home to the country’s first capital, Salvador, until the 1960s when it was moved inland to the modernized city of Brasilia. Today Salvador is considered one of the loveliest cities in the world, full of colonial architecture and a birthplace of Brazilian culture. The city is one of the most popular destinations for those looking to participate in Carnival celebrations and enjoy Brazil’s musical atmosphere. Many of the twentieth century’s most popular South American musicians originated from Salvador.

Another Northeast town known for music is the city of Olinda in the Prenambuco state. It too is popular for Carnival celebrations, but it is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its remarkably well preserved architecture dating from the seventeenth century. The city is home to many museums and  churches as well, and while some come to enjoy the area beaches, others make tours of the town and its colorful history. Olinda is near to the oldest church in Brazil.