Ilê Axé Opó Afonjá, Candomblé temple in São Gonçalo do Retiro, Salvador, Brazil.
Ilê Axé Opó Afonjá is a Candomblé temple complex in São Gonçalo do Retiro, with sacred structures positioned on elevated terrain and thick vegetation surrounding them. The property contains multiple religious buildings arranged across the grounds to serve ceremonial and community purposes.
The temple was founded in 1910 and grew to become a major center for Candomblé practice in Salvador. It received national heritage status in 2000, formally recognizing its importance to African-Brazilian religious and cultural traditions.
The temple serves as an active center for traditional Candomblé ceremonies, where visitors can witness dances, music, and ritual offerings devoted to different orixás throughout the year. The spiritual practices remain integral to daily life on the grounds, reflecting the living heritage of African-Brazilian religion.
The grounds welcome visitors during daytime hours for cultural exchange and learning about Candomblé traditions. Visitors should approach with respect and understand that certain areas may have restrictions during active ceremonies.
The property preserves the last remaining forest patch in the neighborhood, where sacred plants grow for use in rituals and traditional medicine. This green space serves both spiritual and ecological purposes within the urban area.
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