UNESCO World Heritage status for Paraty and Ilha Grande

Paraty and Ilha Grande, located on the Costa Verde in Rio de Janeiro, have been recognized as Latin America’s first mixed UNESCO World Heritage site. This designation acknowledges the region’s dual significance in both natural and cultural heritage.

The protected area encompasses approximately 150,000 hectares, preserving 85% of the Atlantic Forest and supporting rare endemic plant and bird species. The region’s cultural identity is maintained by traditional communities, including indigenous peoples, quilombolas, fishermen, and artisans, who utilize sustainable land and sea management practices.

Key landmarks within the site include the Paraty Historic Center, Morro da Vila Velha, Serra da Bocaina National Park, and Ilha Grande State Park. The area also serves as a cultural hub, hosting events such as the Paraty International Literary Festival (FLIP) and the Festival da Cachaça. Local efforts also focus on preserving intangible heritage, such as the ‘malassombras’—oral traditions involving supernatural narratives and mysteries that form part of the collective memory.