Fallen Cross Monument, Salvador Travel Guide

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A modern monument in Salvador's historic Pelourinho, commemorating a lost cathedral and offering stunning bay views.

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Fallen Cross Monument

The Fallen Cross Monument (Monumento da Cruz Caída) in Salvador, Brazil, is a striking modern sculpture that commemorates the Igreja da Sé Primacial do Brasil, a historic cathedral demolished in the 1930s. Located in the Pelourinho district, it stands as a symbol of resilience, blending modern art with the city's rich cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Fallen Cross Monument

Praça da Sé, Salvador, Pelourinho, State of Bahia, BR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fallen Cross Monument.

Visit in the late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture beautiful sunset views over the Baía de Todos os Santos.
Explore the surrounding Pelourinho neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for its colorful colonial architecture and vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture.
Be mindful of your belongings, especially during busy times, as the area is popular with tourists and vendors.
Check for local events or performances happening in the square to enhance your experience.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Buraco da Sereia

Marco de Fundação da Cidade do Salvador

Joventino Silva City Park

City Museum

Balé Folclórico da Bahia

Explore Fallen Cross Monument on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Fallen Cross Monument, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Elevador Lacerda, take the stairs or elevator down to Praça da Sé. The Fallen Cross Monument will be directly in front of you in the square. From the Igreja de São Francisco, walk towards the main square and head in the direction of Pelourinho. As you approach Praça da Sé, the Fallen Cross Monument will be visible. The walk is roughly 15 minutes.
Public Transport

Take a local bus heading towards the Pelourinho area. Look for routes that stop at Praça da Sé. The bus fare is approximately R$3.50. After getting off, walk towards the monument, which is located in the square.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Salvador. A ride from Salvador Airport (SSA) to the Pelourinho area, where the Fallen Cross Monument is located, typically costs between R$100-R$150. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Discover more about Fallen Cross Monument

The Fallen Cross Monument, or Monumento da Cruz Caída, is a compelling landmark in Salvador, Bahia, that encapsulates the city's historical and cultural heritage. Designed by the Bahian artist Mário Cravo Júnior, the monument was inaugurated in 1999, honoring the Igreja da Sé Primacial do Brasil, an old cathedral torn down in the 1930s to make way for urban development.Located in the Praça da Cruz Caída, the 12-meter high stainless steel sculpture makes references to the grandeur and architectural monumentality of the old church. The monument marks the beginning of Salvador's historic city center and offers panoramic views of the Baía de Todos os Santos (All Saints Bay), connecting visitors to Salvador's maritime and colonial past. The open space functions as a natural amphitheater and hosts cultural events.The demolition of the Sé Church in 1933 remains a controversial event in Salvador's history. The church, which dated back to 1552, was destroyed to make way for a streetcar line. The Fallen Cross serves as a reminder of the city's efforts to balance modernization with the preservation of its architectural heritage. Today, the monument is near other historical sites such as the Museu da Misericórdia and the Memorial das Baianas de Acarajé, making it an integral part of a comprehensive tour of Salvador.