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Salvador de Bahia travel guide

View across PelourinhoSalvador de Bahia, BrazilThe Lacerda ElevatorSalvador de Bahia, BrazilDancers in PelourinhoSalvador de Bahia, BrazilThe old city centerSalvador de Bahia, BrazilBahian dollsSalvador de Bahia, BrazilBarra lighthouseSalvador de Bahia, Brazil
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Salvador de Bahia - Founded in 1549, Salvador de Bahia was the first capital of Brazil and is currently the capital of the state of Bahia. During the 16th and 17th centuries Salvador de Bahia´s economy was largely based around sugarcane, tobacco, and later gold. As these commodities were shipped out to Europe, large numbers of African slaves were brought in to assist with production and to help build the lavish mansions and churches built with the spoils of the trade. Over the centuries the decedents of these slaves have kept alive many of the traditions that came from Africa with their ancestors, and today Salvador de Bahia is the true heart of the country's rich Afro-Brazilian culture. Salvador is alive with the African rhythms of the Candomble rituals and the persistent beats of the djembe. African flavors can be found in the spicy Bahian cuisine, and the twirls of the Capoeira dancers can be seen in Salvador’s squares on a daily basis.


Don’t miss…

Pelourinho – Pelourinho is the historical center of Salvador and is known as a city within a city. Easy to walk around, it is home to a magnificent array of 17th, 18th and 19th century buildings. Places that deserve special attention are the Municipal Square, the Lacerda Elevator, City Hall, most of the churches and the Convent of the Lady of Carmo.

Carnival – Salvador de Bahia throws one of the largest and most extravagant carnival celebrations in the country. Almost two-million people come to celebrate in Bahia every year when parades and dancers take over around 25km of the city’s avenues and squares.

The beaches – The coastline around Salvador de Bahia is a true tropical paradise, with white sandy beaches, swaying palms and a perpetually balmy climate.  Boat trips from All Saints Bay take people out to deserted islands for snorkeling and sunbathing and the nearby island of Morro do Sao Paulo is a popular weekend destination.
 
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You helped make this an incredible trip for us!

Peter Muldavin
United States

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