Church of Nossa Senhora dos Mares (Salvador)

Published on November 20, 2021 · Updated on June 23, 2026

Home » Bahia Travel Guide » Salvador Travel Guide » Church of Nossa Senhora dos Mares (Salvador) — History and Architecture

The Church of Nossa Senhora dos Mares, also known as the Church of Nossa Senhora dos Mares and São Pedro Nolasco, is one of the most striking examples of Neo-Gothic architecture in Salvador.

Situated in Largo dos Mares (Calçada neighbourhood), it stands out for its slender tower, colourful stained-glass windows and architectural design, making it a popular attraction for visitors and worshippers alike.

Igreja Nossa Senhora dos Mares em Salvador da Bahia — Church of Nossa Senhora dos Mares in Salvador, Bahia

History

Igreja Nossa Senhora dos Mares em Salvador

The religious presence at this site dates back to 1749, when the Carmelites maintained a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Seas. The parish was formally established in 1871. The foundation stone of the current parish church, which is influenced by the Neo-Gothic style, was laid in the 1930s, and it was built throughout the 20th century, replacing the old church.

Architecture

The church features neo-Gothic elements: pointed arches, stained-glass windows, rose windows, pinnacles and a slender central tower. Built using reinforced concrete, the church combines vaulted ceilings with ribbed vaults, clustered pillars and a granite floor. The layout is that of a hall church, with a wide nave and side aisles housing marble side altars.

High altar: dedicated to Our Lady of the Seas; the stone altar contains the tombs of the founding vicars.
Notable features: a raised choir, a series of rib vaults and six carved angels inside.
Tower: described in local sources as quite tall (figures range from ~40 to >50 metres).

Interior da Igreja Nossa Senhora dos Mares em Salvador da Bahia — Interior of the Church of Nossa Senhora dos Mares

Practical information

Location: Largo dos Mares, Calçada neighbourhood — Cidade Baixa, Salvador (BA). It belongs to the Archdiocese of São Salvador da Bahia.

Heritage status: not listed on any federal or state heritage register; as it is considered a relatively recent building, there is no formal record of its listing.

Written by Willy Sievert

Editor of Bahia.ws since its founding in 2009. Based in Salvador, he travels frequently across the Northeast and all of Brazil to keep the guides up to date. Learn more about Willy Sievert →