Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Guia, in Lucena

One of the oldest on the Paraíba coast

The Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Guia was built in the sixteenth century by Carmelite priests — around 1591 — and is among Brazil's oldest churches.

It stands atop a cliff, inside a conservation area where patches of Atlantic Forest survive. The position was no accident: it served as a lookout against attacks by invaders.

From up there you can see the beaches of Lucena below — the view alone is worth the climb.

What to see inside

The highlight is the altar, made of limestone. It is said to be the largest of its kind in Brazil.

It is a place of pilgrimage, not only a tourist visit: check the schedule before going, because on feast days the crowds change a great deal.

Combining it with the rest of the trip

The sanctuary works well as the first stop on a half-day itinerary in Lucena, followed by the ruins of the Bom Sucesso church and one of the beaches.

Visitors from João Pessoa usually take the ferry from Cabedelo — about half an hour door to door.