These churches are among the most visited in Salvador, attracting both pilgrims and tourists interested in religion, history and sacred art.
From the popular bustle of the Basílica do Bonfim to the seclusion and social work of the Santuário Santa Dulce, each temple offers a unique experience that synthesises faith and Bahian culture.
In addition to their spiritual value, churches such as São Francisco, Carmo and Sé Cathedral are must-see attractions on the city’s cultural itinerary: their baroque interiors, gilded carvings and historic tiles concentrate centuries of memory and attract visitors who come to appreciate architecture, art and the role of these buildings in the formation of Salvador.
Most visited churches in Salvador, Bahia
História das Fitinhas do Senhor do Bonfim01:07
Curiosidades sobre as Fitinhas do Senhor do Bonfim00:50
História das Fitas do Senhor do Bonfim
ESPECIAL SANTA DULCE DOS POBRES - DOCUMENTÁRIO44:30
Santuário Santa Dulce dos Pobres02:34
Igreja e Convento de São Francisco em Salvador09:07
Catedral Basílica Primacial São Salvador
1. Basilica Sanctuary of Nosso Senhor do Bonfim
A symbol of popular Bahian faith, stage for the Lavagem do Bonfim (Washing of Bonfim) and traditional ribbons, it combines religiosity, festivals and neoclassical architecture, as well as offering views of the Bay of All Saints.
- Inauguration: the image of Senhor do Bonfim arrived from Lisbon in 1745 and construction of the temple began in 1745–1746. The temple was completed and inaugurated on 24 June 1754.
- Address: Praça Senhor do Bonfim, s/n — Bonfim, Salvador — BA (Largo do Bonfim)
2. Santa Dulce dos Pobres Shrine (Sister Dulce)
A pilgrimage site following the canonisation of Sister Dulce; strong emotional and social appeal, exhibitions about her life and work and her efforts to assist the poor.
- Construction and inauguration: The Santa Dulce dos Pobres Shrine opened in 2003. The Hall of Miracles was reopened on 20 October 2023 and a monument at the Shrine was inaugurated on 13 October 2023.
- Address: Av. Dendezeiros do Bonfim, 161 — Bonfim, Salvador — BA
3. Church and Convent of São Francisco
A prime example of Brazilian Baroque architecture, with a richly carved interior covered in gold, Portuguese tiles and artistic details that are not to be missed in Pelourinho.
- Construction: Construction of the Church and Convent of São Francisco began in 1587.
- Address: Largo do Cruzeiro de São Francisco, s/n — Pelourinho, Salvador — BA
4. Primatial Cathedral Basilica of Salvador (Sé)
The religious and historical heart of the city, with altars, paintings and a crypt that illustrate the religious and urban formation of Salvador; located in Terreiro de Jesus.
- Construction: from the laying of the foundation stone in 1657 to the completion of its architectural structure in 1672, 15 years passed. The frontispiece was almost finished in 1679 and the two towers were added in 1694. In 1746, the façade of the church was adorned with images of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus, Saint Francis Xavier, martyr of the East, and Saint Francis Borgia, the third general of the order.
- Address: Praça Quinze de Novembro, s/n — Terreiro de Jesus, Centro, Salvador — BA
5. Church and Convent of Nossa Senhora do Carmo
An important example of Bahian Baroque/Rococo architecture, with a rich collection of religious art, tiles and chapels, forming part of Pelourinho’s cultural itineraries.
- Start of construction: The Carmelites began construction of the complex in 1655, when they received a royal donation, the amount of which is unknown, to build the chancel. The convent was only completed in the 18th century.
- Address: Rua do Carmo, 1 — Santo Antônio Além do Carmo, Salvador — BA (Largo do Carmo)
Publicações Relacionadas
History of the Founding of Salvador, Bahia - History of Brazil
History of the Church of São Pedro dos Clérigos in Salvador
Bahia Art Museum (MAB): Learn about its history and collection
Attractions in the Historic Centre of Salvador, Bahia
History of the Church of Nosso Senhor do Bonfim in Salvador
39 Museums in Salvador: Discover the history and culture of Bahia
Cathedral Basilica of Salvador — History, Sacred Art and Collection
Parks and Squares in Salvador for Leisure Activities
Where to Stay in Salvador for Your Best Experience
History of the São Marcelo Fort or Forte do Mar in Salvador
Prostitution, sex, massage parlours and nightclubs in Salvador
Palaces in Salvador to visit and learn about Brazil's history
Tourist Attractions and Architectural Heritage of Salvador, Bahia
Learn about the history of the construction of the Lacerda Lift
Churches of Salvador: Architectural and Historical Treasures
Tourist attractions for children in Salvador: fun and learning
Nossa Senhora dos Mares Church: Gothic Architecture
Church and Convent of Nossa Senhora da Palma in Salvador, Bahia
Discover the Magnificence of Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat Fort
History of the forts and lighthouses of Salvador, Bahia
Interesting places to visit in Salvador
Rio Vermelho Neighbourhood in Salvador's Nightlife
History of the Senhor do Bonfim Ribbons — Origin, Meaning and Traditions
History of the Cathedral Basilica of Salvador
Fort of Santo Antônio da Barra and Its Rich History
History and sights of Avenida Contorno in Salvador BA
Find out how to celebrate Carnival in Salvador, Bahia
Features and History of the Church and Convent of São Francisco
Basílica de Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia: História
Tourist Attractions in Pelourinho and the Historic Centre of Salvador
Church of the Third Order of St Francis History
Convent and Church of Santa Teresa and its History
Tourist attractions in the Gamboa neighbourhood in Salvador BA
Discover the 23 beautiful beaches of Salvador, Bahia
7 Day Itinerary in Salvador and Surroundings Guide
Ponta de Humaitá: A Gem in Salvador Bahia
This post is also on:
Português 
English 
Deutsch 
Español 
Français
