Pelourinho
Pelourinho / Centro Histórico de Salvador
The colonial old town of Salvador's Upper City, where Baroque houses in pink, yellow, blue and green line the cobbled slopes. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pelourinho means “whipping post.” It takes its name from the pillory in the square where enslaved people were flogged during the colonial period. Today it is the most vibrant cultural quarter in Salvador. The central Pelourinho Square is a triangular slope. At its top stands the blue former Medical School, and at the bottom is the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of the Black People, built by brotherhoods of enslaved Africans. The colourful colonial houses around the square have been converted into restaurants, galleries, craft shops and music schools.
Walking route: Cathedral Square (the Jesuit Cathedral), Church of São Francisco, Pelourinho Square, the Jorge Amado Foundation House, the Carmo Stairs and Carmo Church, and a viewpoint in the Santo Antônio district.
You will often see rehearsals by the Olodum drum band and capoeira performances. Tipping is usually expected if you watch or take photos. Tourist police patrol the area. Stick to the main streets, and take a taxi back at night. Do not walk into quiet alleys. Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes, as the cobbled slopes are steep.
Opening hours
Open all day (daytime and evening visits recommended)
Nearby sights
- Jorge Amado Foundation
- Balé Folclórico da Bahia
- Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of the Black People
- Afro-Brazilian Museum
- Cathedral Basilica & Terreiro de Jesus
- Church and Convent of São Francisco
- Casa do Carnaval da Bahia
- Rio Branco Palace