Palácio do Paranaguá

The Palácio do Paranaguá is an eclectic palace located on Rua Santos Dumont with a two-story white facade that blends architectural elements from various periods. The building combines different styles in its structure, creating a distinctive appearance that reflects its importance to the city.

Built between 1898 and 1907 on the ruins of a former Jesuit college, the palace served as the city's administrative headquarters. The structure marks a transformation of the site, showing how Ilhéus repurposed this location to reflect the city's growing importance.

The second floor houses a museum with photographs, furniture, and objects from the 19th and 20th centuries that document how Ilhéus developed through different periods. Visitors can see everyday items and portraits that tell stories about the city's past leaders and families.

The palace is located on Rua Santos Dumont in a central area of the city and is easy to find. Parts of the building are accessible to visitors, though it is advisable to check ahead which areas are currently open to the public.

The building contains an 18th-century cabinet in perfect condition that survives from the region's wealthy cocoa cultivation period. This carefully preserved piece of furniture demonstrates the quality and luxury that characterized that era.