João Pessoa

João Pessoa is the coastal capital of Paraíba state in northeastern Brazil, spreading along a broad stretch of Atlantic shoreline. The city sits on low coastal terraces framed by cliffs, beaches lined with coconut palms, and neighborhoods that blend older colonial blocks with modern avenues near the water.

Founded in 1585 after a pact between Portuguese colonists and the Tabajara people, the settlement grew into one of Brazil's earliest urban foundations. It carried the name Nossa Senhora das Neves until the 20th century, when it was renamed to honor a national political figure.

The Espaço Cultural José Lins do Rego houses multiple museums, theaters, and galleries that display regional art and host performances throughout the year.

An international airport in the suburbs lies roughly 30 minutes from downtown and offers connections to main Brazilian cities. A city train links several outer neighborhoods to the center and operates mainly during morning and afternoon commuting hours.

Ponta do Seixas marks the easternmost point of the American continent, where the sun rises first each morning. Visitors gather on the small headland to witness the earliest daylight in the western hemisphere.

Location: Paraíba

Inception: 1585

Elevation above the sea: 40 m

Shares border with: Cabedelo, Conde, Bayeux, Santa Rita

Address: João Pessoa, State of Paraíba, Brazil

Website: http://joaopessoa.pb.gov.br

GPS coordinates: -7.12000,-34.88000

Latest update: December 15, 2025 06:48