Aracati, Coastal municipality in Ceará, Brazil
Aracati is a coastal municipality in Ceará along Brazil's northeastern shore, characterized by white sand beaches and dunes. The town spreads across a low elevation and combines natural coastal features with residential and commercial areas.
The town was founded in 1747 and developed around the Fortim de São Lourenço fortress built in 1603. This fortification was originally constructed to defend against maritime attacks and shaped the region's early settlement.
The city center displays houses and churches from the 17th and 18th centuries decorated with traditional Portuguese ceramic tiles on their walls. These ornaments shape the streets today and reflect the Portuguese heritage that defined the region.
The Canoa Quebrada Dragão do Mar Regional Airport sits about 6 kilometers from downtown and serves as the main arrival point. The town's low elevation makes it easy to navigate, and the coastal roads provide good orientation for visitors.
The town served as a major trade hub for dried meat exports to Brazil's sugarcane regions during the colonial period. This preserved meat was essential sustenance for workers and enslaved people on those plantations.
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