Escadaria Selarón Travel Guide

The Escadaria Selarón is a world-renowned staircase in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, a true testament to art, dedication, and cultural unity. Created by Chilean-born artist Jorge Selarón, the steps are a vibrant mosaic that has become an iconic symbol of the city.In 1990, Selarón began renovating the dilapidated steps in front of his house. Initially using blue, green, and yellow tiles to represent the colors of the Brazilian flag, he expanded his vision to include tiles from all over the world. Over two decades, Selarón adorned the 215 steps with over 2,000 tiles from more than 60 countries, creating a constantly evolving masterpiece. Visitors from around the globe contributed to the project, bringing tiles that represented their own cultures and countries.The steps are located between the Lapa and Santa Teresa neighborhoods, linking the lower Lapa district with the higher, more traditional Santa Teresa. The Escadaria Selarón has been featured in numerous movies, music videos, and commercials, further cementing its place as a must-see attraction in Rio de Janeiro. Selarón was found dead on the steps in 2013, but his legacy lives on through this incredible work of art. Visiting the steps is free and open 24/7, though it is best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the colors and details.