Marco Zero (Zero Milestone)

The basics

Most walking and sightseeing tours of Recife make a stop at Marco Zero, one of the city’s most important squares and the centerpiece of the Historic Center. After standing on the plaque marked “Km 0,” take the time to admire the striking colonial buildings around the square, painted in a variety of pastel shades, and pose for photos by the elaborately painted “Recife” sign. You can also take in views across the harbor, including the offshore Francisco Brennand sculpture park.

Things to know before you go

• At the Centro de Artesanato de Pernambuco on the square, local artisans sell traditional art and handicrafts; the shopping street of Rua do Bom Jesus is also right nearby.

• There are several bars and restaurants at the south end of the square.

• The large, paved square is easily accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

How to get there

Marco Zero Square is located along the southeast coast of Recife island, at the gateway to the Historic Center. It’s about a 10-minute walk or short taxi ride from the cruise port.

When to get there

The square is always buzzing with activity, especially on Sunday afternoons and evenings, when locals often gather for live music and street food. Come to watch the sunset along the coast, then stick around to soak up the atmosphere after dark. The square is also a focal point of festivities during Carnival and other city celebrations and events.

Francisco Brennand Sculpture Park

Small boats set sail from Marco Zero Square for the Francisco Brennand Sculpture Park (Parque de Esculturas Francisco Brennand), an open-air museum set on a narrow reef just offshore. You can spot the park’s most memorable piece—the 105-foot (32-meter) high Crystal Tower—from the mainland, but a walk around the park reveals about 100 clay and bronze sculptures by local artist Brennand, including turtles, pelicans, birds, a serpent, and a number of columns.