Pelourinho: Salvador's Historic Heart
Explore Pelourinho, Salvador: a vibrant UNESCO site blending colonial history with Afro-Brazilian culture, music, and art.
Pelourinho, meaning "whipping post" in Portuguese, is a historic neighborhood in Salvador, Bahia, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its name is a stark reminder of its past as a place of public punishment for enslaved people. Today, Pelourinho is a vibrant center of Afro-Brazilian culture, known for its colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and lively arts scene. The neighborhood's architecture reflects its Portuguese colonial heritage, with many buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. These pastel-colored buildings house art galleries, museums, and shops selling local crafts. Key landmarks include the São Francisco Church and Convent, known for its Baroque design, and the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of the Black People, built by enslaved Africans. Pelourinho is also a hub for music and dance, with samba, capoeira, and other Afro-Brazilian traditions thriving in its streets. The neighborhood is home to Olodum, an internationally acclaimed Afro-Brazilian percussion group. Visitors can experience the local culture by attending a traditional dance show, taking a percussion class, or simply enjoying the music in the streets. While Pelourinho is generally safe for tourists, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid wandering into unfamiliar places.
Local tips
- Visit during the day for a safer and more vibrant experience, as the area is heavily policed.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of Pelourinho.
- Try the local Bahian cuisine, such as acarajé, a traditional street food.
- Attend a performance of capoeira or samba to experience Afro-Brazilian culture.
- Shop for local crafts and souvenirs at the boutiques of Ilyê Aiyê and Olodum.
A brief summary to Pelourinho
- Salvador, Pelourinho, State of Bahia, BR
Getting There
-
Walking
Pelourinho is best explored on foot due to its narrow, cobblestone streets. From the Terreiro de Jesus square, walk south into the heart of Pelourinho, taking in the sights and sounds of the historic district. Be prepared for some steep inclines. No costs are associated with walking.
-
Public Transport
From Salvador International Airport (SSA), take the Line 2 (Blue Line) subway to the Acesso Norte station. Transfer to a connecting bus that will take you to Pelourinho. The bus fare is approximately R$5.20. The total journey takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
-
Ride-Sharing Services
Ride-sharing services like Uber and 99 are readily available from Salvador International Airport (SSA) to Pelourinho. The cost is approximately R$50, depending on traffic and time of day. The journey takes around 30-40 minutes.
-
Taxi
Official taxis are available at Salvador International Airport (SSA). The fare to Pelourinho ranges from R$80 to R$120, depending on traffic conditions. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
