Sergipe (SE)

Located in the North-eastern region, Segipe is Brazil’s smallest state.

Initially occupied by a variety of indigenous tribes, who later on mixed with the French and Portuguese colonizers, the current territory came about as a result of neighbouring Bahia’s emancipation, 1820. The then Captaincy of Segipe del-Rei was promoted to a province in 1824 and officially became a state after the proclamation of the Republic in 1889.

The state economy is based on mineral exploration and agriculture, in particular sugar cane, mandioc root, coconut and oranges.

The capital, Aracaju, founded in 1855, was Brazil’s first planned capital and is famous for its beautiful beaches, such as Atalaia, Aruana, Refúgio, Robalo and Mosqueiro, where tourists can go for a ride on a catamaran, or enjoy local popular festival, such as the Pré-Caju (a pre-carnival festival), which takes place two weeks before carnival.

In sergipana culture, big hits are the june festivities, celebrated all over the state, in cities such as Estância and Neópolis. Festivities kick off with fireworks, forró music groups, and xaxado – a northeast music style, fife bands, traditional dances and a colourful balloon show. All this is enjoyed together with plenty of canjica and cous-cous – staple foods in the state.

Another special destination is Itabaiana, known for its Golden jewelry commerce.

Among the natural attractions, one of the most pretty is the Xingó Canyon, with rocks of up to 50 metres in height, which are an unforgettable wonder. The canyon impresses anyone who travels down it, the trip can be made by catamaran or schooner, along the São Francisco river – the largest in the northeast, and which separates the state from Alagoas.

The city of Canindé de São Francisco, 186 km from the capital, is another of the state’s main attractions. Here, visitors will find the Xingó Hydroelectric dam, which forms a gorgeous lake. Tourists are also encouraged to check out the Xingó Archaeology museum, where they will find out about the history of the local civilization.

Small in size, but big in culture and natural beauty – that is Sergipe, one of the most attractive and interesting states in Brazil.

Capital: Aracaju
Area (km2): 21,915.116
Population: 2,242,937 (2015)
Term for a person from this state: sergipano-sergipana
Dial code: 79
Bordering states: Bahia and Alagoas