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Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia: A Baroque Masterpiece

Discover Salvador's historic Basilica of Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia, a stunning example of Baroque architecture and a symbol of Bahian faith.

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The Basilica of Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia, a historic Catholic church in Salvador, Bahia, stands as a symbol of faith and architectural grandeur. Prefabricated in Portugal and assembled in Brazil, this baroque-style church boasts a rich history and stunning interiors, making it a must-see for visitors.

A brief summary to Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the church's serene atmosphere.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting, as it is an active place of worship.
  • Take a moment to admire the intricate details of the floor, made of lioz stone and Carrara marble.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Mercado Modelo and Elevador Lacerda for a complete Salvador experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Mercado Modelo, walk towards the Elevador Lacerda. Take the Elevador Lacerda down to the lower city (Cidade Baixa). Upon exiting the elevador, turn right, and walk a short distance along Rua da Conceição da Praia. The Basilica will be on your left. The Elevador Lacerda costs R$0.15 per trip.

  • Public Transport

    From Praça da Sé, take a local bus towards Comércio. Several bus lines serve this route. Alight at a stop near the Mercado Modelo. From there, walk towards the Elevador Lacerda and follow the walking directions. Bus fare is approximately R$5.20.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    From Pelourinho, a taxi or ride-sharing service (such as Uber or 99) to the Basilica is a convenient option. The journey is short, and the fare should be around R$15-R$25, depending on traffic and the time of day.

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Discover more about Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia

The Basilica Santuário Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia, or simply Igreja da Conceição, is one of the oldest parishes in Salvador, Brazil, dating back to 1549. The current baroque structure, built between 1739 and 1849, is the third iteration on this site. What makes this church particularly unique is that it was prefabricated in Portugal using lioz stone, a type of limestone, and then shipped across the Atlantic for assembly in Salvador. Located in the Comércio district at the foot of the hill connecting the Upper and Lower cities, its construction took three generations of artisans and whale oil to complete. The church's architecture features a symmetrical facade with columns and pediments, a cross-shaped interior, and a prominent dome. Inside, visitors can admire the intricate tile work, paintings, and the main altar in the Rococo style. The floor, made of lioz stone and Carrara marble, is particularly noteworthy. Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia is not only a religious site but also a significant cultural landmark. It is the starting point for the Lavagem do Bonfim, a traditional festival where Bahian women in white dresses wash the steps of the Bonfim Church with scented water. The church is also dedicated to the patron saint of the State of Bahia.

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