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Description
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Known
as the sun capital, Natal is the gateway to some of Brazil's most
beautiful beaches, such as those of the Fernando de Noronha archipelago,
in the state of Pernambuco,
and a succession of beaches that stretch north and south of the
capital of the state of Rio Grande do Norte. But that is not all.
Founded in 1599, the historical district of the city has preserved
buildings that date from the time of its colonization. Washed
by the River Potengi and the Atlantic Ocean, it formed a strategic
bridge for the invasion of Brazil by the French, Portuguese and
Dutch. More recently, during the Second World War, it served as
a base for American troops and was also known as the "Trampoline
of Victory". That aspect is also reflected in the city of Natal.
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Before
going out in search of the sun on the beaches, dunes and coconut
groves that stretch the length of the coastline of Rio Grande
do Norte, it is well worth visiting a few monuments in order to
get a better understanding of this region that was so fiercely
fought over by the Europeans. The point of departure could be
the Fortaleza dos Reis Magos (Three Kings' Fortress) where the
city had its origins. Surrounded by a star-shaped wall, it was
built by the Portuguese between 1598 and 1628 to defend Natal
from the Dutch invasion. Another construction dating from that
period is the ancient Metropolitan Cathedral that was inaugurated
in 1599 and recently restored. The Albert Maranhγo Theatre built
in 1898 and registered by the state Historical Heritage, is an
example of architecture from the colonial era, together with the
church of St. Anthony, built in the eighteenth century.
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As
well as historical tours, Natal offers the visitor walks along
its beaches, some of which are extremely popular, especially amongst
surfers. The main beaches are Forte, Meio, Artistas and Areia
Preta. At the southern end of the Via Costeira, built to promote
tourism in the state, is the beach of Ponta Negra from which may
be glimpsed the hill of Careca, an enormous sand dune that rises
almost vertically. Climbing it by digging ones feet into the soft
sand, can be an enjoyable pastime.
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