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City Museum: A Cultural Journey Through Salvador

Discover Salvador's vibrant history and culture at the City Museum in Pelourinho, a journey through time and tradition.

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Located in the heart of Pelourinho, the City Museum (Museu da Cidade) offers a captivating glimpse into Salvador's rich history and cultural diversity. Housed in a colonial building, the museum showcases artifacts, art, and historical documents that narrate the city's evolution from its colonial past to modern times.

A brief summary to City Museum

  • Largo do Pelourinho, 3, Salvador, Pelourinho, State of Bahia, 40026-280, BR
  • +55713321-1967
  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
  • Take advantage of guided tours offered at specific times for deeper insights into the exhibits.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events or workshops that might coincide with your visit.
  • Combine your museum visit with a stroll around Pelourinho to enjoy the vibrant street life and local cuisine.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are already in Pelourinho, walking to the City Museum is straightforward. From Praça da Sé, head towards the cathedral and follow the signs to Pelourinho. Continue straight until you reach Largo do Pelourinho, where the museum is located at number 3.

  • Public Transport

    From Salvador International Airport (SSA), take the direct bus 1001 to Praça da Sé. The bus departs every 20 minutes and costs R$5.20. From Praça da Sé, it's a 10-15 minute walk to the City Museum. Alternatively, take the subway from the airport to Acesso Norte station (R$4.10), then transfer to a taxi or Uber to Pelourinho.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and 99 are readily available throughout Salvador. A taxi from the airport to Pelourinho costs approximately R$130. A ride-share from the airport to Pelourinho typically costs around R$50. From other parts of Salvador, a short taxi ride to Pelourinho should cost around R$15.20.

  • Driving

    Driving to Pelourinho can be challenging due to limited parking. There are several regulated parking lots in the Historic Center. Delta Parking, located on Avenida José Joaquim Seabra, offers access to Praça das Artes, close to Largo do Pelourinho. Download the Zona Azul app for street parking options. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around R$5-R$10 per hour.

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Discover more about City Museum

The City Museum, nestled in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district, is a treasure trove of cultural and historical insights. This museum invites visitors to delve into the rich tapestry of Salvador's past, presenting a series of exhibits that highlight the city's colonial history, African heritage, and vibrant artistic expressions. As you wander through the museum's halls, you'll encounter a diverse range of artifacts, from traditional crafts to contemporary artworks, each telling a unique story of the city's evolution. The museum emphasizes the significance of Salvador as a cultural hub, highlighting its contributions to art, music, and dance. Exhibits include Candomblé ceremonial garments, the personal belongings of the poet Castro Alves, and traditional cloth dolls depicting daily life in colonial times. The museum's architecture itself reflects the colonial styles that characterize much of Pelourinho, enhancing the overall experience of stepping back in time. For history enthusiasts, the City Museum offers an engaging narrative of Salvador's role in Brazil's development, particularly during the colonial era when it was a major port for the transatlantic slave trade. The museum's informative displays and guided tours provide valuable context, making it a perfect spot for tourists wanting to grasp the complexities of Salvador's heritage. After your visit, take a moment to explore the surrounding Pelourinho district, known for its colorful colonial buildings, lively streets, and local shops. The City Museum not only serves as an educational hub but also as a gateway to experiencing the rich cultural landscape that defines Salvador.

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