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Afro-Brazilian Museum UFBA: A Celebration of Heritage

Explore the vibrant Afro-Brazilian heritage in Salvador's Pelourinho, with art, history, and culture at the Museu Afro-Brasileiro UFBA.

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Located in Salvador's Pelourinho district, the Afro-Brazilian Museum UFBA is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history, art, and traditions of Afro-Brazilian culture. Housed in a restored colonial building, the museum features a diverse collection of artifacts, artworks, and exhibits that highlight the enduring impact of the African diaspora on Brazilian identity.

A brief summary to Afro-Brazilian Museum UFBA

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and have a more intimate experience with the exhibits.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the historical and cultural context of the artifacts.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events, workshops, and performances that may be taking place during your visit.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the Pelourinho district, a UNESCO World Heritage site with colorful colonial architecture and vibrant street life.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Afro-Brazilian Museum UFBA is located in the Pelourinho district, specifically on the Terreiro de Jesus. From most points in Pelourinho, you can easily walk to the museum by following signs to the Terreiro de Jesus. The museum is situated in a distinctive colonial building on the square. Terreiro de Jesus is a vibrant square with vendors and historical churches. The museum is near the Cathedral Basilica of Salvador and the Church of Saint Peter of the Clergymen. No costs are associated with this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving from other parts of Salvador, take public transportation to the Praça da Sé. From Praça da Sé, walk towards the Pelourinho district. Continue to Terreiro de Jesus, where the museum is located. The bus fare is approximately R$5.20. From the airport, bus 1001 goes directly to Praça da Sé for R$5.20.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and 99 are readily available in Salvador. Request a ride to the Afro-Brazilian Museum UFBA at Terreiro de Jesus in Pelourinho. A short taxi ride within the central area of Salvador, such as from Praça da Sé to Pelourinho, typically costs around R$15.20. From the airport, a taxi or ride-share to Pelourinho may range from R$80 to R$150, depending on traffic and the time of day.

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Discover more about Afro-Brazilian Museum UFBA

The Afro-Brazilian Museum (MAFRO) of the Federal University of Bahia (UFBA) is a vital cultural institution dedicated to the preservation, study, and dissemination of Afro-Brazilian heritage. Located in the historic Pelourinho district of Salvador, Bahia, the museum offers visitors an immersive experience into the rich and complex history of Africans in Brazil and their profound influence on Brazilian society. The museum is housed in a beautifully restored colonial building that was once Brazil's first medical school, dating back to the 16th century. Its collection comprises over 1,100 pieces of African and Afro-Brazilian material culture, including artifacts, photographs, ornaments, masks, musical instruments, and utilitarian objects. The exhibits explore various facets of Afro-Brazilian life, such as religion, art, music, dance, and social practices. A highlight is the "Mural dos Orixás," a series of 27 carved cedar panels by Carybé depicting Candomblé deities. The museum also features a collection of African objects acquired by photographer and anthropologist Pierre Verger, including pieces from Senegal, Nigeria, Benin, Ghana, and Angola. These objects provide insight into the diverse cultures and traditions that were brought to Brazil by enslaved Africans. The museum actively contributes to the promotion and preservation of these cultural roots through exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events. It serves as both an educational space and a cultural hub, hosting workshops and performances that bring the community together to celebrate Afro-Brazilian heritage.

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