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Museu Náutico da Bahia: A Beacon of Maritime History

Explore Brazil's maritime history at the Museu Náutico da Bahia, housed in the iconic Farol da Barra in Salvador.

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Housed within the historic Farol da Barra (Barra Lighthouse), the Museu Náutico da Bahia offers a captivating journey through Brazil's maritime past. Explore fascinating exhibits, including ship models, navigational instruments, and underwater archaeological finds, all while enjoying panoramic ocean views.

A brief summary to Museu Náutico da Bahia - Farol da Barra

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more intimate museum experience.
  • Don't miss the sunset views from the terrace. It's the perfect spot for a memorable photo.
  • Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibitions or special events during your visit.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around the adjacent Farol da Barra Beach.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Porto da Barra beach, walk along Avenida Sete de Setembro towards the Farol da Barra. The walk is approximately 15 minutes, offering scenic views of the coastline. The museum is located inside the Forte de Santo Antônio da Barra, directly beneath the lighthouse.

  • Public Transport

    From the Pelourinho, take a city bus (e.g., an 'executive' bus for added comfort) towards Barra. Several bus lines serve this route. Alight at the Farol da Barra stop. The museum is a short walk from the bus stop, located within the Forte de Santo Antônio da Barra. Bus fare is approximately R$4.20.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From anywhere in Salvador, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/99) can take you directly to the Farol da Barra. The journey from the city center (e.g., Pelourinho) typically costs between R$30-R$50, depending on traffic and time of day. The museum entrance is located inside the Forte de Santo Antônio da Barra.

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Discover more about Museu Náutico da Bahia - Farol da Barra

The Museu Náutico da Bahia, strategically positioned inside the iconic Farol da Barra, stands as a sentinel of Brazil's rich nautical history. The lighthouse itself, also known as the Santo Antônio Lighthouse, marks the entrance to the Baía de Todos os Santos (All Saints Bay). It was the first nautical signaling system to operate in the Americas, initially established in 1698. Inside the museum, visitors can delve into exhibits showcasing the hydrography, navigation, and signaling systems of Bahia during the 17th and 18th centuries. The collection includes a variety of artifacts, such as ship models, historic maps, and nautical instruments that played a crucial role in Brazil's maritime exploration and trade. A permanent exhibit highlights the geography, history, anthropology, and culture of the Recôncavo, emphasizing its inextricable link to the sea. The current lighthouse tower, dating back to 1839, is a striking architectural landmark. Its construction is a truncated masonry cone with a lantern and gallery, reaching a height of 22 meters. The tower is painted with distinctive black and white bands. The museum not only offers a glimpse into the past but also provides stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline.

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