Paraty [10] , south of Río, is a colonial gem on a quiet bay where jungle meets the ocean.  The first Portuguese arrived at the end of the 16^th century.  It became an important port for shipping gold back to Portugal, but fell into decline and a lack of roads helped preserve its constructions, culture and traditions.  The cobbled streets, closed to traffic, are lined with centuries old buildings.

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Three historic churches in Paraty lie within close proximity – one for each race. 

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