Rio Branco Palace: A Window into Bahia's History
Explore Brazil's history at the Rio Branco Palace in Salvador, Bahia: a former government seat with stunning views and historical artifacts.
The Rio Branco Palace in Salvador, Bahia, stands as a powerful symbol of Brazilian history. Originally built in 1549 as the seat of Portuguese government, it has witnessed centuries of transformation, serving as a command center, royal residence, barracks, and even a prison. Rebuilt in 1919 after being bombed, today it houses the Bahia State Secretariat of Culture and the Memorial of the Governors, offering visitors a glimpse into the state's rich past.
A brief summary to Rio Branco Palace
- Praça Tomé de Souza, S/N, Salvador, Centro, State of Bahia, 40020-000, BR
- +55713116-6928
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit the ground floor for free to enjoy panoramic views of the Bay of All Saints and the Lower City.
- Explore the Memorial of the Governors to see historical artifacts and learn about Bahia's past.
- Take a guided tour to discover the palace's hidden stories and architectural details.
Getting There
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Walking
The Rio Branco Palace is located in the heart of Salvador's historic center, on the Tomé de Souza Square, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions. From the Lacerda Elevator, it's a short walk. As you exit the elevator in the Upper City, the palace is located to your right. No costs are associated with this final approach.
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Public Transport
Several bus lines serve the Tomé de Souza Square area. Check local bus routes for the most convenient option from your starting point. From the bus stops near Praça Castro Alves, it's approximately a 7-minute walk to the palace. A single bus fare within the city costs around R$4.10 - R$5.20. After getting off the bus, walk towards the Lacerda Elevator and the Rio Branco Palace will be on your right.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and 99 are readily available in Salvador. A short taxi ride within the city center, such as from the Pelourinho district, typically costs around R$15.20 - R$32. Ask the driver to take you to Praça Tomé de Souza. Note that fares may vary depending on traffic and time of day. There are no unavoidable tolls on the immediate final approach.
Discover more about Rio Branco Palace
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Prefeitura Municipal de Salvador
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Praça da Sé - Comercio
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Museum Eugenio Teixeira Leal
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Escadaria Sambazete
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Forte de São Pedro
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PASTEL DA BINA/Tempero do Camaleon
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Monumento do Dois de Julho (Caboclo)
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A majestic sculpture in Salvador's Campo Grande, celebrating Bahia's pivotal role in Brazil's independence and rich cultural heritage.
Square Two July
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Pé do Caboclo
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Bahia Museum of Art
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Casa de Oxumarê
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Carlos Costa Pinto Museum
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Paróquia Nossa Senhora da Vitória
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Englishmen Cemetery (British Cemetery)
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Carybé Arts Space - São Diogo Fort
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Unmissable attractions to see
Praça Thomé De Souza
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Monumento a Tomé de Souza
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Elevador Lacerda
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Memorial of the City of Salvador
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Centro Histórico
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Cultural Afro Brazilian Museum
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Museu do Mercado Modelo
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Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia
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Monumento à Cidade de Salvador - BA
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Museum of Mercy
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Praça do Mercado
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Memorial das Baianas
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Cidade da Música da Bahia
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Museum of Brazilian Music
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Praça Castro Alves
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Essential places to dine
Caravelas Bar e Restaurante
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Restaurante Fasano Salvador
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Mariposa
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Odoyá
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Boteco do Pelourinho
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O Coliseu
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Cuco Bistrô
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Bar and Restaurant Axego
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Sorriso da Dadá
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Restaurante Pelô Bistrô
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Restaurante Uauá
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Donna Pimenta
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Amado
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Soho
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Restaurante Lafayette
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Experience exquisite seafood dining in Salvador's Comercio district at Restaurante Lafayette - where fresh flavors meet Bahian hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shopping do Pelô
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Salvador Bahia
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Coração da Bahia
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Viabrasilmodaearte
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Pierim Souvenirs - Pelourinho
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Sol da Terra Artesanatos Artigos para Presente e Confe
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Sal da Terra - Pelourinho
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Dendê
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Maria Mata Mouro
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Boutique Do Ilê Aiyê
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O Blokão
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Super C
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Shopping do Pelourinho
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Boutique A Mulherada
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Atrevida Lingerie e Moda Praia
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hidden Salvador
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Clube do Samba
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Conforto Bar e Restaurante
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Bar Preto Velho
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Sala do reboco
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Passarela Do Álcool
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Negro's Bar
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Owl's den - Toca da coruja bar
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Bar Cravo & Canela
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Kibe & Cia
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Bar Zulu
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Ponto Vital Santo Amaro
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Bar do Carmo
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Di Janela - Gastronomia, Restô, Bar
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Bar do Léo
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