Escadaria Selarón Travel Guide

The Escadaria Selarón is a stunning and ever-evolving public artwork located in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, connecting the Lapa and Santa Teresa neighborhoods. This iconic staircase, the creation of Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, has become a symbol of the city and a testament to the power of art to transform public spaces.In 1990, Selarón began his ambitious project of renovating the dilapidated steps in front of his house. Initially, he covered the steps in blue, green, and yellow tiles, mirroring the colors of the Brazilian flag. Over time, the project grew into a global endeavor, with Selarón incorporating tiles from over 60 countries, donated by visitors from all over the world. The 215 steps are covered with over 2,000 tiles, creating a kaleidoscope of colors, patterns, and textures.Selarón's dedication to his art was unwavering; he sold paintings and accepted donations to fund his work. He continuously worked on the steps, constantly redesigning and adding to the mosaic, making it a living, ever-changing piece of art. Selarón was often seen working on the steps, engaging with tourists and locals alike. The artist tragically passed away on the steps in 2013, but his legacy lives on in this vibrant and unique landmark.Visiting the Escadaria Selarón is free, and the steps are open 24/7, though it is best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the colors and details of the tiles. The steps are a popular spot for tourists and photographers, so visiting early in the morning is recommended to avoid crowds.