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Marco de Fundação: Salvador's Founding Landmark

Commemorating the founding of Salvador, Brazil's first capital, with a historic pillar and tile mural on Porto da Barra Beach.

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The Marco de Fundação da Cidade do Salvador (City of Salvador Foundation Landmark) commemorates the founding of Salvador, Brazil's first capital, in 1549. Located on Porto da Barra Beach, it features a stone pillar and a tile mural depicting the arrival of Tomé de Sousa, marking a pivotal moment in Brazilian history.

A brief summary to Marco de Fundação da Cidade do Salvador

Local tips

  • Visit during low tide to fully enjoy Porto da Barra Beach and easily access the monument.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby São Diogo Fort for panoramic views of the coastline.
  • Try local Bahian cuisine from the street vendors around the beach for an authentic culinary experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Porto da Barra Beach, the Marco de Fundação is easily accessible on foot. Simply walk along the beach towards the northern end, near the São Diogo Fort. The monument is located directly below the fort. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the city center or other parts of Salvador, take a city bus to Porto da Barra. Buses are a common mode of transport, and the fare is approximately R$5.20. From the bus stop, walk towards the beach and follow the shoreline to the northern end, near the fort.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Salvador. A short trip from nearby neighborhoods like Barra or Graça would cost approximately R$15-R$25. Ask the driver to take you to Porto da Barra Beach; the monument is a short walk from the drop-off point.

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Discover more about Marco de Fundação da Cidade do Salvador

The Marco de Fundação da Cidade do Salvador, inaugurated on March 29, 1952, marks the spot where Tomé de Sousa landed in 1549, establishing Salvador as Brazil's first capital. The monument is located on the picturesque Porto da Barra Beach in the Barra neighborhood. It symbolizes the beginning of Portuguese colonization and the foundation of what would become a major cultural and economic center in the New World. The monument consists of a six-meter-high pillar made of Portuguese Lioz limestone, adorned with the symbols of the Portuguese Crown and the Cross of Christ. A panel of azulejo tiles complements the pillar, illustrating the arrival of Tomé de Sousa and his fleet. The original tiles, created in Lisbon by Joaquim Rebocho in 1949, were replicated by Eduardo Gomes in 2003. The tile panel measures 4.20 meters in length and 1.97 meters in height. The Marco de Fundação is more than just a historical marker; it's a symbol of Salvador's rich cultural heritage and resilience. The surrounding area is vibrant, with local artisans, performers, and food vendors, offering visitors a taste of Bahian culture. The landmark was designated a landmark of the City of Salvador on January 27, 2019.

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