Definition
Altinho is a municipality located in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. It is part of the Agreste region, an interior zone that lies between the coastal forest zone and the semi‑arid Sertão.
Overview
Altinho occupies an area of roughly 250 km² in the central‑eastern portion of Pernambuco. According to estimates from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) for the year 2020, the municipality had a population of about 22 000 inhabitants. The municipal seat is situated at an elevation of approximately 650 meters above sea level, which gives the town its characteristic mild climate relative to the surrounding lowlands.
The local economy is traditionally based on agriculture and livestock. Main agricultural products include beans, corn, manioc, and fruit trees such as mango and cashew. Cattle raising for meat and dairy production also contributes significantly to municipal revenues. In recent decades, small‑scale commerce and public sector employment have become increasingly important.
Altinho observes a tropical semi‑humid climate (Köppen Aw), with a rainy season that generally extends from February to May and a drier period from June to January. Average annual temperatures range between 20 °C and 26 °C.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Altinho” derives from the Portuguese word altinho, a diminutive of alto, meaning “high” or “elevated.” The designation likely references the town’s relatively high altitude compared with the surrounding terrain of the Agreste.
Characteristics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Geography | Located in the Agreste; bordered by the municipalities of Santa Cruz da Baixa Verde (north), Caruaru (south), and others. |
| Population | ~22 000 (2020 estimate). |
| Area | Approximately 250 km². |
| Elevation | About 650 m above sea level. |
| Economy | Agriculture (beans, corn, manioc), livestock (cattle), small‑scale commerce. |
| Climate | Tropical semi‑humid (Aw); average annual temperature 20–26 °C; distinct rainy and dry seasons. |
| Cultural sites | Local churches dating to the 19th century, annual religious festivals honoring patron saints, and community music groups typical of the Agreste cultural tradition. |
Related Topics
- List of municipalities in Pernambuco
- Agreste (Pernambuco)
- Economy of Pernambuco
- Climate of the Brazilian Northeast
All information presented reflects data available from publicly accessible Brazilian statistical and geographical sources as of 2023.