Tourism Guide to Bahia, Salvador, the Northeast and Brazil | Bahia.ws

Turismo na Bahia, Salvador, Nordeste e Brasil — dicas de viagem, praias, cultura, gastronomia, roteiros e vídeos para planejar sua visita.

History of the Senhor do Bonfim Ribbons — Origin, Meaning and Traditions

in Salvador de Bahia

Lord of Bonfim ribbons: History and Meaning

The ribbons of Senhor do Bonfim are amulets of faith and tradition that have a long and rich history, especially associated with the city of Salvador, in Bahia, and the Church of Nosso Senhor do Bonfim.

Fitinhas do Senhor do Bonfim
Lord of Bonfim ribbons
Igreja do Bonfim e Fitinhas do Senhor do Bonfim
Bonfim Church and Ribbons of Senhor do Bonfim
Igreja do Bonfim e Fitinhas do Senhor do Bonfim
Bonfim Church and Ribbons of Senhor do Bonfim

Video about the history of Senhor do Bonfim ribbons

História das Fitinhas do Senhor do Bonfim
play-rounded-fill

1. Origin and first form

The Senhor do Bonfim ribbons originated in Salvador, Bahia, in the early 19th century.The original piece was not a wristband, but a medallion called “medida do Bonfim” (Bonfim measure), created around 1809.

This piece measured approximately 47 cm — the length attributed to the right arm of the image of Nosso Senhor do Bonfim, sculpted in Setúbal (Portugal) and installed in the church in the 18th century.

The first “measures” were made of silk, hand-embroidered with the saint’s name and finished with gold or silver thread.

2. Evolution to the wristband

The original measure evolved throughout the 20th century into smaller strips of fabric.By the 1960s, wrist ribbons were already being sold on the streets of Salvador and incorporated into local cultural movements.

The adaptation is attributed, in some accounts, to Manuel Antônio da Silva Serva, although there are varying versions of the transition.

3. Use and meaning

Tradition of the three knots

The traditional practice consists of tying the ribbon around the wrist with three knots. With each knot, a wish is made; the popular belief is that when the ribbon wears out and breaks naturally, the wishes will be granted.

Colours and symbolism

The ribbons come in various colours, each associated with different requests or meanings — for example, white for peace/protection and red for passion/strength.In the context of religious syncretism in Bahia, colours are also related to orixás (e.g. dark green — Oxóssi; light blue — Iemanjá; yellow — Oxum).

Fitinhas do Senhor do Bonfim
Lord of Bonfim ribbons

Devotional function and votive offerings

Originally used as necklaces with medals and ex-votos (small offerings related to graces received), the ribbons became devotional souvenirs and popular amulets, widely distributed during festivals such as the Lavagem do Bonfim.

4. Material and production

While the early pieces were made of silk and embroidered, contemporary ribbons are mostly made of synthetic materials (polyester), making them more affordable and widespread.

5. Cultural significance

The Senhor do Bonfim ribbons represent an expression of faith, religious syncretism, and Bahian cultural identity. They have become a tourist symbol of Salvador and are recognised nationally and internationally.

6. Interesting facts

  • Traditional measurement linked to the original piece: 47 cm.
  • Tradition of tying three knots, each with a wish.
  • Transition from medallions/necklaces to wristbands consolidated in the 20th century.

Bahia.ws is the largest tourist guide for Bahia and Salvador.

Publicações Relacionadas

Tourist attractions in the Gamboa neighbourhood in Salvador BA

Tourist Attractions and Architectural Heritage of Salvador, Bahia

Lacerda Elevator — history, construction and visits

Church of the Third Order of St Francis — History, Art and Baroque Architecture

Palaces in Salvador to visit and learn about Brazil's history

Parks and Squares in Salvador for Leisure Activities

Rio Vermelho is Salvador’s trendiest and most bohemian neighbourhood

Discover the Magnificence Fort of Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat

Ponta de Humaitá — Lighthouse, church and the best sunset in Salvador

History of São Marcelo Fort — Salvador, Bahia

4 Must-See Museums in Salvador: Art, History and Culture

Pelourinho: what to do in Salvador’s Historic Centre

Discover the reasons for a holiday in Salvador, Bahia

History of the forts and lighthouses of Salvador, Bahia

Churches of Salvador: Architectural and Historical Treasures

Tourist attractions for children in Salvador: fun and learning

Where to Stay in Salvador for Your Best Experience

Basílica Santuário Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia — history and architecture

7-day itinerary in Salvador and the surrounding area: Pelourinho, the islands and Praia do Forte

The most visited churches in Salvador — itinerary and tips

Santo Antônio da Barra Fort — history, Barra Lighthouse and the Nautical Museu

Features and History of the Church and Convent of São Francisco

Churches of Salvador: Architectural and Historical Treasures

History and sights of Avenida Contorno in Salvador BA

Pelourinho (Salvador) — Historical Guide, Architecture, and UNESCO World Heritage Site

Cathedral Basilica of Salvador — History, Sacred Art and Collection

Fort of Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat History

39 Museums in Salvador: Discover the history and culture of Bahia

Church and Convent of Nossa Senhora da Palma in Salvador, Bahia

History of the Church of São Pedro dos Clérigos in Salvador

Convent and Church of Santa Teresa and the UFBA Museum of Sacred Art in Salvador

Solar do Unhão & MAM-BA — History, Architecture and a Visit

History of the Church of Nosso Senhor do Bonfim in Salvador

Find out how to celebrate Carnival in Salvador, Bahia

Attractions in the Historic Centre of Salvador, Bahia

Church of Nossa Senhora dos Mares (Salvador) — History and Architecture

This post is also on: Português English Deutsch Español Français

Hide picture