Paradoxically, the long stagnation process that Paraty underwent turned out axial in preserving the colonial architectural heritage in the area known as the Historic Centre, turning it into one of the most sought after destinations in Paraty

Through the irregular cobblestone roads tourists from all over the globe stroll by -cars are forbidden in this area-, attracted by the typical beauty of colonial Brazil. They stop at former manor houses turned into inns, restaurants, museums and shops, as they enjoy street musicians and living statues

Kept as a historical heritage, the Centre of Paraty is definitively a relic. The area was given by the imperial authorities in colonial times in order to develop the village. Then the military engineers planned the streets, squares, churches and residential areas which were organized in perfect harmony. The architecture is very simple, made of two storey houses along side streets. The higher classes lived at the nearby haciendas where the great landowners lived in impressive manor houses.

Whale oil lamps provided the street lighting, and the main streets have a channel in the middle through which the rain water would drain and the sea water would flood and clean out the Historic Centre.

With its many and preserved colonial buildings, the Centre is a place where no car traffic is allowed. It is indeed an outdoors museum. But in this museum photographs are allowed, you can touch everything and you can revive the past.