Learn about the history of the Galeão Sacramento shipwreck in Salvador and its relationship to the famous Barra lighthouse. The Shipwreck of the Galeão Sacramento occurred in 1668 off the coast of Salvador, Bahia and is one of the most famous nautical events in the maritime history of colonial Brazil. […]
Although commonly known as the ‘Barra Lighthouse’, the site is actually the Fort of Santo Antônio da Barra — an older fortification (16th–17th centuries) which houses the Barra Lighthouse, built in the late 17th century, and the Bahia Maritime Museum. Historical overview Origin: the first earth and timber structures dating […]
1. History of the Forts of Salvador, Bahia The city of Salvador was founded with defence in mind: the Portuguese colonisers’ aim was to secure sovereignty over the territory. For this reason, the forts became the central elements of the colonial capital’s defensive system. Trenches, bastions and towers, positioned at […]
The Rio Vermelho neighbourhood is Salvador’s main hub for bohemian life and dining, bringing together bars, restaurants, acarajé stalls, small
Lençóis is the gateway to the Chapada Diamantina. The town was founded when diamond deposits were discovered in Mucugê in the mid-19th century. At
Ponta de Humaitá is one of the most charming spots in Salvador, situated near Monte Serrat Fort on the Itapagipe peninsula. With a stunning view of
A practical guide to things to do in Pelourinho: Baroque churches, museums, squares, a suggested itinerary and tips for making the most of
The beaches of Salvador, Bahia, offer 50 km of coastline with something for everyone: beaches with calm waters perfect for families, reefs that form
Arembepe is a charming village on the north coast of Bahia, around 42 km from Salvador. Known for its historic Hippie Village, the Tamar Project site
Salvador, the capital of Bahia, is a vibrant city where history, Afro-Brazilian culture, music and beaches come together — the perfect setting for
Bahia Maritime Museum: what you need to know before visiting Housed within the iconic Barra Lighthouse, the Bahia Maritime Museum is one of
A quick cultural guide to Salvador’s most popular museums, with practical tips on how to make the most of each visit. Salvador is a cultural hub
A listed neoclassical building in Ilhéus, a symbol of the heyday of the cocoa industry. Find out when it was built, what to see and how to organise
São Jorge Parish Church in Ilhéus (BA): a heritage site of historical, Jesuit and religious art significance The Parish Church of São Jorge is one
The Convent and Church of Nossa Senhora da Piedade: a neo-Gothic heritage site and religious symbol of Ilhéus (BA) The Church of Nossa Senhora da
The São Sebastião Cathedral, in the historic centre of Ilhéus (formerly São Jorge dos Ilhéus), is a religious and cultural landmark of the city.
Ilhéus, in southern Bahia, is a destination for those seeking literature, beaches and ecotourism. Famous for the novels of Jorge Amado, the city
Following the expulsion of the Jesuits, the church of the former College of the Society of Jesus became the Cathedral Basilica of Salvador, replacing
The Cathedral Basilica of Salvador is located in the heart of Pelourinho and is one of the most important sacred buildings in colonial Brazil. As
A selection of the 15 most famous beaches and coastal destinations in Bahia, bringing together essential information about characteristics (swimming,
Accommodation options in Salvador, Bahia When planning your stay in Salvador, choosing the right neighbourhood makes all the difference in getting
Bahia boasts some of Brazil’s most stunning coastal scenery: beaches where colourful cliffs meet white sands, reefs form natural pools of
Summary of the History of the Church and Convent of Nossa Senhora da Palma Origins and foundation: construction began in the 17th century; there is
