​The São Luis architectonic complex consists of more than 3.5 thousand buildings, most from the 18th and 19th Centuries. The townhouses that line the narrow downtown streets and Praia Grande exhibit various colors and shapes of ornamental Portuguese tiles on their façades. Approximately one thousand of these historical constructions have been restored. The buildings most deserving of attention include the Arthur Azevedo Theater, from 1817, in neo-Classic style, and the Palace of the Lions that was originally a fortress erected by the French, and was later transformed into a palace by the Portuguese. Another interesting place to visit in the historical center is the Tulhas’ Market where local products can be acquired.