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Casa do Benin: A Slice of Benin in Salvador's Pelourinho

Explore the vibrant Afro-Brazilian heritage at Casa do Benin, a cultural bridge between Salvador and West Africa.

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Casa do Benin, located in the heart of Salvador's Pelourinho, is a cultural center and museum celebrating the historical and cultural ties between Bahia, Brazil, and Benin, West Africa. It features a collection of artifacts, art, and exhibits that highlight the Afro-Brazilian heritage and the cultural exchange between the two regions.

A brief summary to Casa do Benin

  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week for a more relaxed experience, as weekends can be crowded.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events, workshops, and lectures to enrich your visit.
  • Take your time to explore each exhibit, as the stories behind the artifacts are deeply enriching.
  • Engage with the knowledgeable staff for unique insights into the exhibits and Afro-Brazilian culture.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby cultural sites in Pelourinho for a full day of exploration.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Praça da Sé in Pelourinho, walk down Rua Direita de Santo Antônio. Continue straight until the end of the street, then turn right onto Rua do Santo Antônio. Casa do Benin will be a few blocks down on your left. The walk takes about 20-25 minutes.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    From Pelourinho, enter 'Casa do Benin, Santo Antonio, Salvador' as your destination in a taxi or rideshare app. The ride should take around 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around R$15-R$20.

  • Public Transport

    From the Campo da Pólvora metro station, you can walk (around 15 minutes) or take a short taxi or rideshare to Casa do Benin. Walking, exit the station and head towards Pelourinho; follow the signs for the historical center. A short taxi ride from the station to Casa do Benin should cost approximately R$10-R$15.

Unlock the Best of Casa do Benin

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Discover more about Casa do Benin

Casa do Benin, inaugurated in 1988, is housed in a traditional building in Pelourinho, Salvador, and serves as a vibrant testament to the cultural connections between Bahia and Benin. The museum's collection comprises approximately 200 pieces from the Gulf of Benin, gathered by French photographer and ethnographer Pierre Verger during his travels in Africa. These objects showcase the art, history, and religious practices of Benin and their influence on Afro-Brazilian culture. The building itself was renovated by the Italian-Brazilian architect Lina Bo Bardi, who incorporated African architectural elements into the design, creating a unique and inviting space. The museum features the Pierre Verger Museum Space, the Lina Bo Bardi Exhibition Room, and the Gilberto Gil Auditorium, hosting temporary exhibitions, community events, and workshops. The courtyard includes the Jeje Nagô Gourmet Space, inspired by Beninese rural restaurants, and a replica of a Beninese building called “Tatassomba”. Colorful fabrics by Goya Lopes, a pioneer in Afro-Brazilian fashion, add vibrancy to the space. Casa do Benin organizes exhibitions and supports Bahian artists inspired by African art, contributing to the recognition and appreciation of Afro-Brazilian culture. It also hosts lectures, courses, workshops, and guided tours to enhance knowledge of this cultural heritage. The museum is near other historical and cultural sites in Pelourinho, making it an essential stop for those exploring Salvador's rich Afro-Brazilian history.

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