Historic Centre of Salvador da Bahia, Historic site in Salvador, Brazil
Description
The Historic Centre of Salvador da Bahia is an old town covering around 80 hectares with colonial buildings, churches, and squares positioned between the upper and lower areas of the city. The narrow streets, Baroque facades, and historic structures form a connected urban space that keeps the original city layout intact.
History
It was founded in 1549 as Brazil's first capital and developed under Portuguese rule during the colonial period. Until 1763, it served as an important port for maritime trade that shaped the region's economy for centuries.
Culture
The neighborhood shows African, Portuguese, and indigenous roots through its religious practices, music, and food that remain part of daily life. You can see and feel these influences in the churches, the colorful buildings, and the way people gather in the streets and squares.
Practical
The area is filled with museums, restaurants, and cultural centers connected by the Lacerda Elevator, which moves people between the upper and lower sections easily. The steep streets and stairs require comfortable shoes and taking breaks as you walk through the old streets.
Did you know?
One street here is considered Brazil's oldest and was laid out in 1549, with centuries-old Baroque churches whose facades display detailed ornamental carvings. These religious buildings showcase skilled stonework and decoration that preserves the craftsmanship of the colonial period.
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Pelourinho
1.4 km
Elevador Lacerda
1.7 km
Arena Fonte Nova
1.4 km
São Francisco Church and Convent
1.3 km
Mercado Modelo
1.7 km
São Marcelo Fort
2 km
Church of the Third Order of Our Lady of the Rosary of the Black People
1 km
Faculdade de Medicina da Bahia
1.3 km
Rio Branco Palace
1.6 km
Solar do Unhão e Capela de Nossa Senhora da Conceição
2.8 km
Church of the Third Order of Saint Francis
1.3 km
Museum of Modern Art of Bahia
2.8 km
Fundação Casa de Jorge Amado
1.1 km
Municipal Chamber of Salvador
1.6 km
House of the Former Quinta do Unhão
2.8 km
Afro-Brazilian Museum
1.3 km
Plano Inclinado Gonçalves
1.3 km
Palácio da Aclamação
3.1 km
Fonte da Rampa do Mercado
1.8 km
Cathedral of Salvador
1.3 km
Fórum Ruy Barbosa
1.7 km
Palácio Tomé de Sousa
1.7 km
Museum of Sacred Art
2.2 km
Hospital Santa Izabel
622 m
Relógio de São Pedro
2.3 km
Edifício Sulacap
2 km
Fort of Saint Peter
3.2 km
Church and Convent of Our Lady of the Conception of Lapa
2 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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