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Church and Convent of San Francisco: A Baroque Masterpiece

Discover the opulent Church and Convent of San Francisco in Salvador, a dazzling display of Brazilian Baroque and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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The Church and Convent of San Francisco in Salvador, Bahia, is a stunning example of Brazilian Baroque architecture. Its ornate interior boasts intricate gilded woodwork and a vast collection of hand-painted Portuguese tiles, making it a must-see landmark in the historic Pelourinho district.

A brief summary to Church and Convent of San Francisco

  • Largo do Cruzeiro de São Francisco, S/N, Salvador, Pelourinho, State of Bahia, 40020-280, BR
  • +55713322-6430
  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on cobblestone streets in the Pelourinho district.
  • Visit during the week to avoid large crowds, especially on Sundays when Mass is celebrated.
  • Take your time to admire the intricate details of the gilded woodwork and the azulejo tile panels.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and take necessary safety precautions while exploring Pelourinho.
  • Check for local events or cultural performances happening in the Largo do Cruzeiro de São Francisco.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Church and Convent of San Francisco is located in the Pelourinho district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From most points within Pelourinho, it's easily accessible on foot. Head towards the Largo do Cruzeiro de São Francisco, where the church is located. The walk may involve navigating cobblestone streets.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving from other parts of Salvador, take the metro to the Campo da Pólvora station. From there, you can either walk (approximately 20-30 minutes uphill to Pelourinho) or take a local bus or taxi to Largo do Pelourinho. Bus fares are around R$4-5. From the bus stop in Pelourinho, it's a short walk to the church.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and 99 are readily available in Salvador. A ride from the airport to Pelourinho typically costs between R$50-R$120, depending on traffic and the service used. From other parts of the city, fares will vary. Be sure to confirm the fare or use a ride-sharing app for transparent pricing.

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Discover more about Church and Convent of San Francisco

Located in the heart of Salvador's Pelourinho, the Church and Convent of San Francisco is a breathtaking testament to the opulence of Brazilian Baroque. The Franciscan friars initially constructed a church and convent on this site in 1587, but the structures were destroyed during the Dutch invasions of Bahia. The current church and convent were built in the 18th century, starting in 1708, with decorations continuing for many years. The complex stands as one of the Seven Wonders of Portuguese Origin in the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stepping inside is like entering a world of gold. The church's interior is renowned for its lavish use of gold leaf, covering intricately carved wooden sculptures and panels. The walls are adorned with approximately 55,000 hand-painted Portuguese azulejos (ceramic tiles), the largest collection in Latin America, depicting scenes from the life of St. Francis. The main chapel features exuberant gilded woodwork, while the chancel floor is made of marble in different colors, representing foliage. The convent features a serene cloister constructed between 1707 and 1752, with arches supported by stone columns. The cloister's walls showcase the largest set of Portuguese tiles in Brazil. The sacristy, located behind the high altar, features a massive sacristy cabinet, 17th-century Portuguese azulejos, and an elaborately coffered ceiling. The church exemplifies a fusion of Portuguese Baroque elements and local Bahian influences. The use of native woods and the integration of Brazilian motifs create a unique and captivating atmosphere.

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