The carnivals of Recife and Olinda  along with those of   Rio and Salvador, are today among the most lively of Brazil. If they lose out in terms of showbiz, they gain hands down in terms of originality and spontaneity. 

An alchemy  of profane and religious, Portuguese traditions, African rites, Indian beliefs,  mixed by nature, such is Bumba Meu Boi, a folkloric feast which finds its most beautiful expression in the State of Maranhão.

Martial art martial and dance, music, game and philosophy; la capoeira is in the mage of the earth which has seen it born. Developed by slaves to defend themselves from their masters, its practice was for a very long time, banned.