Discover Bezerros

Papangu traditions and nature in Bezerros

Bezerros offers several reasons to explore the culture and traditions of inland Pernambuco. The masked Papangus are a defining feature of the city’s Carnival; in Serra Negra, visitors can also experience a Mata Atlântica nature reserve and São João na Serra Negra, with traditional Forró pé-de-serra. When looking for a holiday rental in Bezerros, travellers can consider whether art and Papangu history, or nature and Forró, will play a bigger role in their stay.

Papangus, collections and handicrafts

The Museu Maria Dulce Gomes is located in the Estação da Cultura. Its collection showcases the way of life and traditions of Bezerros. The Estação da Cultura is also home to the Memorial do Papangu, dedicated to this figure who is a defining feature of the city’s Carnival. Various masks and costumes are on display there. The two institutions offer different perspectives: the museum focuses on local life and traditions, while the memorial centres on the Papangus and their distinctive appearance.

During guided tours at the Centro de Artesanato de Pernambuco: Unidade Bezerros, visitors can see handicrafts made of wood, clay and paper, as well as tapestries and embroidery. Papangu masks and woodcuts by artisans from Bezerros are also among the works on display. The variety of materials and techniques gives a tangible impression of the breadth of local handicrafts. At the Memorial J. Borges, visitors can admire and purchase works by master artist J. Borges.

The Casa da Cultura Popular Lula Vassoureiro offers another perspective on the Papangu tradition. Through the works of Lula Vassoureiro, it presents the tradition of the masked figures who fill the streets of Bezerros during Carnival. Carnaval do Papangu is considered one of the most traditional and authentic Carnival celebrations in inland Pernambuco. It celebrates emotions, history, memories, colours, rhythms and joy. Those interested in the cultural side of Bezerros encounter the Papangu theme through artworks, masks and costumes, as well as at Carnival itself.

Serra Negra: Mata Atlântica and Forró

Serra Negra is a visitor destination in the municipality of Bezerros, in the Agreste region of Pernambuco. Parque Ecológico de Serra Negra includes a Mata Atlântica reserve with a grotto and viewpoints. Its diverse flora includes bromeliads, orchids, comfrey flowers, ipês, balsam trees and jatobás. Serra Negra therefore offers a nature-focused experience alongside Bezerros’ cultural attractions. The Trilha do Parque Ecológico is another attraction in the Serra Negra municipality.

São João na Serra Negra is also a major event: every year it attracts thousands of tourists, visitors and Forró fans from Pernambuco, Brazil and other parts of the world. They come to experience traditional Forró pé-de-serra. Those interested in music and this tradition can therefore include Serra Negra as a reason for their trip. Nature and Forró are among the experiences on offer here, alongside the Papangu and handicraft themes, but they describe different kinds of visits.

Cakes and choosing a travel focus

Bezerros is also associated with the production of cakes and sweets. These include Bolo de Barra Branca, which is described as a product with a designation of origin. This culinary speciality adds another local dimension to the destination’s cultural and natural attractions.

When looking for a holiday rental in Bezerros, it helps to weigh the different options in your travel plans: Papangu traditions and handicrafts in Bezerros, or the natural attractions and Forró in Serra Negra.

More destinations: Olinda, Igarassu, São Joaquim do Monte, Amaraji, Surubim, Taquaritinga Do Norte, Jaboatao Dos Guararapes and Fernando De Noronha.

For the regional travel overview: Pernambuco.