Historic Centre of Salvador da Bahia

Welcome to the Historic Centre of Salvador da Bahia, a place where the very stones under your feet pulse with the complex, often painful, but ultimately resilient history of Brazil. As we begin our journey, take a deep breath of…

We begin here at the Praça Castro Alves, a location that marks the gateway to the historic core and offers one of the most magnificent vistas of the Bay of All Saints. This square was originally known as the Largo do Teatro, for…

Step now onto Rua Chile, arguably the first street ever formally laid out in Brazil. In the early colonial days, it was known as the Rua Direita dos Mercadores, or the Right Street of the Merchants, highlighting its historical…

Before you stands the Elevador Lacerda, a towering icon of Salvador’s unique geography. As we’ve noted, the city is split between two levels, and for centuries, this steep cliff was a barrier to movement. …

We now enter the Terreiro de Jesus, a wide, vibrant plaza that serves as the religious and social heart of the historic district. This square is dominated by the Cathedral Basilica, a masterpiece of Jesuit architecture completed…

We now approach the Church and Convent of São Francisco, often referred to as the 'Golden Church.' Completed mostly by 1755, this is considered one of the most complete and imposing examples of Portuguese-Brazilian Baroque…

Finally, we arrive at the Largo do Pelourinho, the iconic triangular plaza that is the emotional and historical epicenter of Salvador. The word 'Pelourinho' literally means 'Pillory,' and for centuries, this was the place where…

As we conclude our journey through the Historic Centre of Salvador, take a moment to look back at the silhouettes of the churches and the vibrant colors of the mansions. You have walked through a city that is a living archive of…