Lacerda Elevator
Elevador Lacerda
A 72-metre Art Deco city elevator connecting the Upper and Lower Cities. Built first in 1873, it is a symbol of Salvador and costs very little to ride.
The Lacerda Elevator was first built in 1873 by the engineer Antônio de Lacerda. It is one of the earliest public elevators in the world. It was rebuilt in 1930 as the Art Deco tower standing today, about 72 metres high. Four lifts take roughly 30 seconds to carry passengers between the Upper City's Town Hall Square (Praça Tomé de Sousa) and the Lower City's commercial district. It transports tens of thousands of people every day.
The fare is a token amount of just a few tenths of a real, paid by card or cash. The upper exit platform is the best viewpoint over All Saints Bay, the Lower City harbour, the Modelo Market and the Forte de São Marcelo out at sea, and it is especially beautiful at sunset. The lower exit faces the Modelo Market, which is worth a stroll.
The Lower City is quiet in the evening and on weekends. Take care, and use the elevator during the day if you can.
Opening hours
Approx. 06:00–23:00 (check on site)
Nearby sights
- Mercado Modelo
- Casa do Carnaval da Bahia
- Rio Branco Palace
- Cathedral Basilica & Terreiro de Jesus
- Afro-Brazilian Museum
- Church and Convent of São Francisco
- Monastery of São Bento
- Balé Folclórico da Bahia