João Pessoa, formerly Parahyba, city in northeastern Brazil, capital of Paraíba State, on the Paraíba do Norte River. Nearby is its port, Cabedelo, on the Atlantic Ocean. João Pessoa is a leading trade center; manufactures include cement, footwear, and cigars. The Federal University of Paraíba (1955) is here. João Pessoa was founded in 1585. Population (1996 estimate) 549,363.
