PARAHIBA, a town of Brazil, capital of the province of the same name, stands on the right bank of the River Parahiba, about 16 miles above its mouth, and 65 N. of Pernambuco. The houses, which are generally only one storey high, are built of stone, and tiled; and the principal streets are well paved. The most important public buildings are an old Jesuit college, now containing the governor's residence, house of assembly, and courts of law; a custom-house, town-hall, numerous churches and convents, an hospital, and barracks. There is also a college or lyceum, and two elementary schools. The harbour is only accessible to small vessels; but it is much frequented, and has an active trade in the produce of the province. Pop. 16,000.