The Historical Center of Salvador, known as Pelourinho, is one of Brazil’s most vibrant and culturally rich destinations. With its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored colonial houses, lively music, and baroque churches, this district is the beating heart of Salvador da Bahia—a city that was once the first capital of Brazil and remains the cradle of Afro-Brazilian culture. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, Salvador’s historic center is a living celebration of Brazil’s history, rhythm, and soul.

Founded in 1549, Salvador was the first Portuguese colonial capital in the Americas and a major port for the sugar and slave trade. The city’s prosperity led to the construction of grand churches, civic buildings, and colorful mansions that still define its skyline today.

The name Pelourinho means “pillory,” referring to the colonial punishment post that once stood in the main square—a painful reminder of the city’s slave-trade past. Over the centuries, Pelourinho transformed from a center of colonial power into a cultural hub, symbolizing resilience, heritage, and freedom. After extensive restoration in the 1990s, it became one of Brazil’s most visited and photographed neighborhoods.

Interesting Facts
- The district is home to some of Brazil’s oldest and most beautiful churches, including:
- Igreja de São Francisco, with its gilded Baroque interior covered in gold leaf.
- Catedral Basílica de Salvador, the city’s main cathedral with stunning colonial art.
- Pelourinho’s architecture is a colorful mosaic of Portuguese colonial style, featuring ornate balconies and cobblestone alleys that overlook All Saints Bay (Baía de Todos os Santos).
- It’s a center for Afro-Brazilian music, dance, and religion, where you’ll hear the sounds of samba, reggae, and capoeira echoing through the streets.
- The district inspired Michael Jackson’s famous “They Don’t Care About Us” music video, filmed with local drummers from Olodum right in the main square.
- Each Tuesday, the “Terça da Benção” (Blessed Tuesday) fills Pelourinho with live music, drumming, and traditional blessings—a must-see cultural experience.

Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for photography and mild weather; evenings for live music and street performances.
What to Do:
- Visit the São Francisco Church and Convent for its gold-covered interior.
- Explore Museu Afro-Brasileiro to learn about African influences in Brazilian culture.
- Ride the Elevador Lacerda, linking the Upper and Lower Cities, for panoramic bay views.
- Browse local artisan markets for Bahian crafts, paintings, and souvenirs.
- Safety Tip: Pelourinho is well-patrolled, but it’s best to stay in main areas and avoid dark alleys at night.
- Nearby Attractions: Mercado Modelo, Igreja do Bonfim, and the Farol da Barra (Barra Lighthouse) are short drives away.
- Cuisine Tip: Try local Bahian dishes like acarajé, moqueca, and vatapá from street vendors or traditional restaurants.