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Elevador Lacerda: A Vertical Gateway Between Salvador's Worlds

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Ascend to breathtaking views and connect with Salvador's history aboard the iconic Elevador Lacerda, a landmark since 1873.

The Elevador Lacerda, an iconic landmark in Salvador, Brazil, is one of the world's first urban elevators, built in 1873. Connecting the Cidade Alta (Upper City) and Cidade Baixa (Lower City), it offers stunning panoramic views and a vital transportation link for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Elevador Lacerda

  • Praça Tomé de Souza, S/N, Salvador, Centro, State of Bahia, 40020-000, BR
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Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Elevador Lacerda.

  • Visit during sunset for stunning views of the city and the bay.
  • Bring your camera—photo opportunities are abundant, especially at the top.
  • Check the elevator's operational hours in advance.
  • Explore the surrounding Praça Tomé de Souza for local shops and eateries.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Praça da Sé, walk towards the Rio Branco Palace, keeping the Catedral Basílica on your left. Continue straight, and you'll find yourself at Praça Tomé de Souza, where the upper entrance to Elevador Lacerda is located. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No cost is involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the Salvador Bus Terminal, take a bus heading towards the city center (Centro). Several bus routes pass near the Elevador Lacerda. Check local transportation authorities for specific bus routes and schedules. Get off at a bus stop near Praça Tomé de Souza. The bus fare is typically around R$3.50 (Brazilian Reais).

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Salvador. Simply input 'Elevador Lacerda' or 'Praça Tomé de Souza' as your destination. The cost will vary depending on your starting location, but expect to pay between R$20 to R$50 for a ride within Salvador.

Discover more about Elevador Lacerda

The Elevador Lacerda is more than just a means of transportation; it's a symbol of Salvador's history, innovation, and culture. Inaugurated in 1873, it was one of the first urban elevators in the world, designed to overcome the geographical challenge of connecting the upper and lower parts of the city, separated by a significant escarpment.Originally named the Elevador da Conceição, it was later renamed in honor of Antônio de Lacerda, the engineer who conceived the project. The elevator initially operated with a hydraulic system before being electrified in 1906. In 1930, it underwent a renovation that gave it the Art Deco facade that distinguishes it today.The Elevador Lacerda is 72 meters (236 feet) tall, and its four elevators can carry up to 32 passengers each on a quick, 30-second ride. From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Baía de Todos os Santos (All Saints Bay), the Mercado Modelo (a historic marketplace), and the Forte de São Marcelo. The elevator is a major tourist attraction, transporting thousands of people daily and providing access to the Pelourinho, Salvador's historic center.

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