1. Convento e Igreja de São Francisco: A Colonial Convent
The São Francisco Church and Convent of Salvador is truly a sight to behold for those who love cathedrals, as well as those who simply savor the decadence of old-world European architecture and design. The values of the culture during the time period of the early 17th century are evident in every intricate molding, exuberant, golden woodwork, and painstakingly-painted ceilings lit up overhead. No detail is spared and every alcove and corner within this Jesuit church is a marvel to behold. Get lost studying the beautiful, Baroque-inspired foliage, angels, and and arches. This is one sacred place that will remain with you long after you have left.
2. Cathedral of Salvador: History and Heritage
The Cathedral of Salvador is the seat of the Archbishop in Salvador, Brazil - and its majestic interiors and opulent exteriors say just as much. Hearkening back to its Portuguese roots, the one-aisled church, while not as decadent as the São Francisco Church, certainly mesmerizes viewers with its attention to art and architecture. The interiors feature beautiful stonework, gilded altarpieces and archways, statues depicting religious figures of significance, and beautiful balconies that rest only halfway up its cavernous ceilings.
3. Elevador Lacerda: Providing a Modern View
Looking down from the Elevador Lacerda, you can marvel not only at the beautiful city of Salvador but how far its restoration of the notable art-deco-style elevator has come. The city, with its shimmering golden spires of the Catedral Basílica de São Salvador and the Convento e Igreja de São Francisco, as well as its jewel, the Bay of All Saints, deserves more than one look. And with the Evader Lacerda's intimate, panoramic view, you'll feel as though everything the light touches was crafted for your eyes only. The Eleavador Lacerda connects the Cidade Alta with Comércio and its 4 elevators can travel 72m in 30 seconds.
4. Praia do Porto da Barra: The "Beach Barrio"
In Salvador, when the sightseeing is done and the memory-making has concluded, travelers can relax, unwind and witness some of that famed Brazilian beach life at the Porto da Barra Beach. Right on the Bay of All Saints, it's the place to be for stunning sunsets, adrenaline-pumping watersports, and calm waters. The beach is lined with more than just coastline: there are plenty of vendors, restaurants, cafes, and beach volleyball nets set up. Before finishing up for the evening, take a walk to the small, white, colonial-style building at the beach's tip, which was the first settlement point.
5. Solar do Unhao: Bossa Nova and Modern Art
The Solar do Unhão is tucked away on the edge of the waters but is a perfectly-preserved complex that dates back to the 18th century. Arrive here for the day and plan to spend it outdoors as well as indoors, at the Museu de Arte Moderna. Once you're done marveling at the avante-garde exhibits, unwind to the familiar, beloved sounds of Saturday evening slow jazz, mixed with everyone's national favorite, Bossa Nova.
