Casa Pia and College of the Orphans of Saint Joachim

Casa Pia is an educational complex with religious purpose in Salvador that connects multiple buildings including classrooms, a chapel, and residential quarters through stone corridors. The facades and interior spaces display Portuguese architectural features from the time of its construction.

The building began in 1704 as a Jesuit novitiate and became an orphanage in 1759 after the departure of that religious order from Brazil. This transformation shaped its purpose for more than two centuries.

The chapel displays religious artwork that reflects its meaning for the local Catholic community. The space continues to serve religious purposes today, blending devotion with the daily life of the school.

Visitors must obtain advance permission since the site continues to function as an educational institution and is not freely accessible. It is advisable to contact those in charge beforehand to arrange a suitable visit time.

The chapel ceiling contains a fresco by José Teófilo de Jesus from 1826 depicting the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary. This artwork is a remarkable example of religious painting from that era.

Location: Salvador

Inception: 1709

Architectural style: baroque architecture

Address: Avenida Frederico Pontes, 375

GPS coordinates: -12.94964,-38.50032

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:20