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Prefeitura Municipal de Salvador: A Modern Heart in a Historic City

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.

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The Prefeitura Municipal de Salvador, or Salvador City Hall, stands on the Praça Municipal as a modern structure amidst the historical architecture of Brazil's first capital. Designed by architect João Filgueiras Lima, its steel and glass structure offers a contrast to the colonial buildings surrounding it.

A brief summary to Prefeitura Municipal de Salvador

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to see the building open, as it has limited hours on the weekend.
  • Take a stroll around Praça Municipal to appreciate the blend of architectural styles and historical landmarks.
  • Enjoy the views of Todos os Santos Bay from the square.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Pelourinho, walk towards the Elevador Lacerda. Praça Municipal, where the Prefeitura is located, is at the top of the Elevador. Walking from the Pelourinho takes about 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take a city bus to Praça da Sé. From Praça da Sé, walk towards the Elevador Lacerda; the Prefeitura is located on Praça Municipal, at the top of the elevator. Bus fare is around R$5.20.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Take a taxi or ride-sharing service to Praça Municipal. A short ride from nearby locations like Pelourinho will cost approximately R$15-25. Be aware that traffic can affect the price.

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Discover more about Prefeitura Municipal de Salvador

The Prefeitura Municipal de Salvador is located on the Praça Municipal, a square with deep historical roots in Salvador. The square is considered the birthplace of Brazilian civilization, as it was the first to gather all the public buildings of the then capital. Tomé de Souza, the first Portuguese governor, established the earliest centers of governance and religious worship here in the 16th century. The current City Hall is a modern building designed by the renowned architect João Filgueiras Lima, known as Lelé. Constructed from steel and glass, it presents a striking contrast to the traditional colonial architecture of the area. The building's construction began in May 1986 and was completed just a few weeks later, opening that same month. Praça Municipal is also home to other significant buildings, including the Palácio Rio Branco, which once served as the governor's home and now functions as a cultural center, and the iconic Elevador Lacerda, which connects the upper and lower parts of the city.

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