Cathedral Basilica of Salvador: A Testament to Faith and History
Discover the Catedral Basílica de Salvador, a stunning blend of architectural styles and a treasure trove of Brazilian sacred art in Pelourinho.
The Cathedral Basilica of Salvador, located in the heart of Pelourinho, stands as one of Brazil's most significant religious monuments. Built by the Jesuits in the 17th century, it showcases a blend of Mannerist, Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical architectural styles. The cathedral is a symbol of sacred art and religious architecture, holding historical relics and artistic treasures.
A brief summary to Cathedral of Salvador
- Largo Terreiro de Jesus, s/n, Salvador, Pelourinho, State of Bahia, 40026-010, BR
- +55713321-4573
- Visit website
Local tips
- Explore the Terreiro de Jesus square surrounding the cathedral, where you'll find street vendors, musicians, and capoeira dancers.
- Visit other nearby churches, such as the Church of São Francisco, known for its opulent decorations.
- Take time to appreciate the cathedral's 13 altars, each showcasing a unique architectural style from Baroque to Renaissance.
Getting There
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Walking
The Catedral Basílica de Salvador is located on the Terreiro de Jesus in Pelourinho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Praça da Sé, walk towards the salmon-colored building with a Lanchonete sign and turn right onto Rua Chile. Continue until you reach Praça Tomé de Souza, then walk along Praça da Sé, past the street vendors and fountain. Terreiro de Jesus will be on your right. The cathedral is on the northern side of the square. No cost for walking.
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Public Transport
From Salvador Airport, take bus 1001 to Praça da Sé. The bus departs from Praça Gago Coutinho, right outside the airport terminal. From Praça da Sé, walk towards the salmon-colored building with a Lanchonete sign and turn right onto Rua Chile. Continue until you reach Praça Tomé de Souza, then walk along Praça da Sé, past the street vendors and fountain. Terreiro de Jesus will be on your right. The cathedral is on the northern side of the square. The bus fare is R$5.20.
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Taxi/Ride-sharing
From Salvador Airport, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/99) to the Catedral Basílica de Salvador in Pelourinho takes approximately 30 minutes. The average taxi fare ranges from R$100 to R$150. Ride-sharing services may offer slightly lower fares, around R$50, but prices can fluctuate depending on traffic and time of day. From the port, you can reach the historical center in less than 10 minutes by taxi and the cost will be around €2.50 (BRL 15.20).
Discover more about Cathedral of Salvador
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Museum Eugenio Teixeira Leal
0.1 km
Explore Brazil's economic past through coins, medals, and historical artifacts at the Museum Eugenio Teixeira Leal in Salvador's Pelourinho.
Praça da Sé - Comercio
0.1 km
Discover Praça da Sé in Salvador: a vibrant square where history, culture, and local life blend seamlessly in the heart of Bahia's capital.
Prefeitura Municipal de Salvador
0.3 km
A modern city hall in a historic square, the Prefeitura Municipal de Salvador blends contemporary design with the rich heritage of Brazil's first capital.
Escadaria Sambazete
0.4 km
Discover Salvador's vibrant art scene at Escadaria Sambazete, a colorful staircase offering stunning views and a taste of Bahian culture.
São Marcelo Fort
0.9 km
Explore Salvador's iconic cylindrical sea fort, a historical landmark with panoramic views of the Bay of All Saints.
PASTEL DA BINA/Tempero do Camaleon
1.3 km
Savor authentic Brazilian pastries at PASTEL DA BINA in Salvador's Santo Antônio Além do Carmo, offering delicious flavors and stunning bay views.
Forte de São Pedro
1.9 km
Explore Salvador's Forte de São Pedro: a historic fortress with stunning ocean views, offering a glimpse into Brazil's colonial past.
Monumento do Dois de Julho (Caboclo)
2.2 km
A majestic sculpture in Salvador's Campo Grande, celebrating Bahia's pivotal role in Brazil's independence and rich cultural heritage.
Square Two July
2.2 km
Discover Salvador's vibrant heart at Square Two July: history, culture, and natural beauty converge in this iconic urban oasis.
Pé do Caboclo
2.2 km
Discover Pé do Caboclo in Salvador: a landmark celebrating Bahia's independence and rich cultural heritage in a vibrant, historical setting.
Casa de Oxumarê
2.6 km
Experience Afro-Brazilian spirituality at Casa de Oxumarê, a historic Candomblé temple in Salvador, Bahia. A vibrant center of culture and tradition.
Bahia Museum of Art
2.9 km
Discover 5,000+ works of art at Bahia's oldest museum, featuring Brazilian, Oriental, and European collections in a historic palace setting.
Carlos Costa Pinto Museum
3.1 km
Explore Brazilian decorative arts and immerse yourself in the opulent world of Bahia's colonial elite at this Salvador museum.
Paróquia Nossa Senhora da Vitória
3.2 km
Discover a historic Catholic church in Salvador, Bahia, with stunning architecture, religious art, and a peaceful atmosphere in a vibrant local square.
Englishmen Cemetery (British Cemetery)
3.8 km
Explore the historical Englishmen Cemetery in Salvador, Bahia, a unique landmark reflecting British influence and heritage since the early 19th century.
Unmissable attractions to see
O cravinho
0.0 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Bahia at O Cravinho, a legendary Pelourinho bar serving traditional infused cachaças since the 1980s.
Centro Histórico de Salvador da Bahia
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant history and culture of Centro Histórico de Salvador da Bahia, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with art, music, and stunning architecture.
Centro Histórico de Salvador, Bahia
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant streets of Centro Histórico de Salvador, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history, culture, and Bahian flavor.
Afro-Brazilian Museum UFBA
0.1 km
Uncover the profound impact of African heritage on Brazil's cultural identity at the Afro-Brazilian Museum UFBA in Salvador.
Museu de Arqueologia e Etnologia da UFBA
0.1 km
Explore Brazil's rich cultural heritage at the Museu de Arqueologia e Etnologia da UFBA in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.
Largo Terreiro de Jesus
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Salvador at Largo Terreiro de Jesus, where history, culture, and culinary delights come together in a stunning plaza.
Praça da Sé
0.1 km
Explore the historical charm of Praça da Sé, a vibrant square in Salvador, Brazil, rich in culture, architecture, and local traditions.
Casa do Carnaval da Bahia
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant culture of Bahia at Casa do Carnaval, a museum celebrating the heart of Brazilian Carnival in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.
Praça Terreiro de Jesus
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Salvador at Praça Terreiro de Jesus, where culture, history, and local flavors come together in a lively town square.
Bahia Experience
0.1 km
Explore Largo Terreiro de Jesus in Salvador's Pelourinho: a vibrant square where history, culture, and stunning architecture converge.
Church of Saint Peter of the Clergymen
0.1 km
Explore the exquisite Church of Saint Peter of the Clergymen in Salvador, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture rich in history and cultural significance.
Praça Sé
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant cultural heart of Salvador at Praça Sé, a historic square surrounded by stunning architecture and lively local activities.
Pelourinho
0.1 km
Explore Pelourinho, Salvador: a vibrant UNESCO site blending colonial history with Afro-Brazilian culture, music, and art.
Estátua Dom Pedro Fernandes Sardinha
0.1 km
Explore the rich colonial history at Estátua Dom Pedro Fernandes Sardinha, a stunning monument in Salvador's vibrant Pelourinho district.
Igreja Ordem Terceira São Domingos Gusmão
0.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Mariposa
0.1 km
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Odoyá
0.1 km
Experience the essence of Bahian cuisine at Odoyá, where fresh seafood meets vibrant culture in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.
Boteco do Pelourinho
0.1 km
Discover vibrant flavors and traditional dishes at Boteco do Pelourinho in Salvador's historic heart.
Cuco Bistrô
0.2 km
Experience Salvador's vibrant culinary scene at Cuco Bistrô with exquisite seafood dishes, refreshing cocktails, and captivating live music.
Restaurante Pelô Bistrô
0.2 km
Experience authentic Bahian cuisine at Restaurante Pelô Bistrô in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district, where fresh seafood meets local tradition.
Bar and Restaurant Axego
0.2 km
Discover authentic Brazilian cuisine at Axego Bar and Restaurant in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.
O Coliseu
0.2 km
Experience authentic Brazilian cuisine at O Coliseu in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district - where every dish tells a story.
Sorriso da Dadá
0.2 km
Experience authentic Bahian seafood at Sorriso da Dadá in Pelourinho – where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante Uauá
0.2 km
Experience authentic Bahian cuisine at Restaurante Uauá in Salvador’s historic Pelourinho district—where flavor meets culture.
Donna Pimenta
0.2 km
Experience authentic Bahian cuisine at Donna Pimenta in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district – where tradition meets flavor!
Caravelas Bar e Restaurante
0.6 km
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Restaurante Fasano Salvador
0.6 km
Experience culinary excellence at Restaurante Fasano Salvador - where authentic Italian flavors meet luxurious ambiance.
Amado
1.0 km
Experience culinary excellence at Amado in Salvador, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking views for an unforgettable dining adventure.
Ristorante La Cucina
1.0 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante La Cucina in Salvador's Nazaré neighborhood – where every dish tells a story.
Poró Restaurante & Bar
1.1 km
Experience authentic Bahian cuisine at Poró Restaurante & Bar in Salvador - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pierim Souvenirs - Pelourinho
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Salvador at Pierim Souvenirs - Pelourinho, where unique local crafts and friendly service await.
Shopping do Pelô
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant world of Bahia's artistry at Shopping do Pelô, a gift shop filled with unique local crafts and unforgettable souvenirs.
Sal da Terra - Pelourinho
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant fashion scene at Sal da Terra, a unique clothing store in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district, reflecting Bahia's rich culture.
Sol da Terra Artesanatos Artigos para Presente e Confe
0.1 km
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Dendê
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Bahia at Dendê, your go-to souvenir store in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.
Viabrasilmodaearte
0.1 km
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Salvador Bahia
0.1 km
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Coração da Bahia
0.2 km
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Boutique Do Ilê Aiyê
0.2 km
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Maria Mata Mouro
0.2 km
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Boutique A Mulherada
0.2 km
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Shopping do Pelourinho
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant world of fabrics at Shopping do Pelourinho, where Salvador's rich culture comes alive through colorful textile creations.
O Blokão
0.3 km
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Super C
0.4 km
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Atrevida Lingerie e Moda Praia
0.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Clube do Samba
0.0 km
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Bar Preto Velho
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Salvador at Bar Preto Velho, a lively bar in the historic Pelourinho district, perfect for relaxing and enjoying local drinks.
Sala do reboco
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Salvador at Sala do Reboco, a bar that offers authentic local flavors and lively music in the heart of Pelourinho.
Bar Cravo & Canela
0.1 km
Experience Salvador's vibrant nightlife at Bar Cravo & Canela, a cozy bar in the heart of Pelourinho, serving up authentic Brazilian drinks.
Kibe & Cia
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture and flavors of Bahia at Kibe & Cia, a lively bar located in the heart of Salvador's Pelourinho district.
Negro's Bar
0.2 km
Discover the lively spirit of Salvador at Negro's Bar, where authentic cuisine and vibrant nightlife create unforgettable memories.
Conforto Bar e Restaurante
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and rich culture of Bahia at Conforto Bar e Restaurante in the heart of Pelourinho, Salvador.
Owl's den - Toca da coruja bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Owl's Den - Toca da Coruja Bar in Pelourinho, where culture meets unforgettable cocktails.
Bar Zulu
0.3 km
Discover the lively Bar Zulu in Salvador, where authentic Brazilian cuisine meets vibrant ambiance, perfect for an unforgettable dining experience.
Ponto Vital Santo Amaro
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant energy of Ponto Vital Santo Amaro, a cultural bar in Salvador's Pelourinho district, offering local drinks and live music.
Bar do Carmo
0.4 km
Immerse yourself in the lively spirit of Salvador at Bar do Carmo, where local culture and delicious drinks await in the heart of Pelourinho.
Hidden Salvador
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Salvador at Hidden Salvador, where local culture meets refreshing drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Di Janela - Gastronomia, Restô, Bar
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Salvador at Di Janela, where culinary tradition meets a lively bar atmosphere.
Passarela Do Álcool
0.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Passarela Do Álcool, a vibrant bar in Salvador known for its cocktails and local charm, perfect for nightlife enthusiasts.
Bar do Léo
0.6 km
Discover the lively spirit of Salvador at Bar do Léo, where delicious drinks and local culture come together in a vibrant atmosphere.