Museum culture in Salvador, Bahia!

Carlos Costa Pinto Museum (Museu Carlos Costa Pinto)

Why Visit?

Unveiling the Golden Splendors of Bahia: A Visit to the Carlos Costa Pinto Museum

Step into a world of opulence and history at the Carlos Costa Pinto Museum, located in the heart of Salvador, Bahia. This remarkable institution offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the 18th and 19th-century Brazilian aristocracy, showcasing an exquisite collection of decorative arts and personal items.

Getting There

Nestled in the bustling neighborhood of Vitória, the museum is easily accessible via bus or taxi from any part of the city. Just instruct your driver or look for buses heading towards Vitória, and disembark at the Avenida Sete de Setembro. From there, a short walk will lead you to the museum"s ornate doors.

What to Expect

Upon arriving, the grand facade of the museum, housed in a magnificent mansion, sets the tone for what"s inside. The museum was established in the 1960s by Margarida de Carvalho Costa Pinto, who wanted to preserve her husband Carlos Costa Pinto’s collection of luxury items. As you step inside, prepare to be mesmerized by over 3,000 pieces, including gold and silver work, precious jewelry, Bahian furniture, and fine porcelain.

Highlights of the Tour

Start your journey in the Gold Room, where you"ll be surrounded by intricate sacred objects and lavish service items, each telling stories of Bahia"s wealthy planters and merchants. Don"t miss the intricately carved furniture in the Furniture Room or the delicate china in the Porcelain Room. The museum also boasts an impressive array of crystal and glassware, adding to the glittering atmosphere.

Engage and Learn

The museum offers guided tours in both Portuguese and English, allowing you to delve deeper into the historical context and craftsmanship behind each exhibit. These tours are particularly enlightening and can be booked in advance through the museum’s website or by calling ahead.

Before you leave, take a moment to reflect in the tranquil museum garden, a perfect spot to ponder the rich history you"ve just embraced. Whether you"re a history aficionado or an art lover, a visit to the Carlos Costa Pinto Museum is a journey through the golden age of Bahia that you won"t soon forget.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Itaparica Island (Ilha de Itaparica)

Why Visit?

Island of Inspiration: Museum Tour on Itaparica

Embark on a cultural odyssey across the serene Itaparica Island, where history and art echo through the Atlantic breeze. Located in the Bay of All Saints, this island is accessible by a scenic ferry ride from the São Joaquim terminal in Salvador. Depart in the morning to catch the gentle sunlight dappling the waters.

First Stop: Museu da Ilha de Itaparica

Begin your journey at the Museu da Ilha de Itaparica, situated near the ferry terminal at Amoreiras. Housed in a charming colonial building, this museum offers a profound glimpse into the island"s past, showcasing relics from the indigenous Tupinambá, pieces of the Portuguese colonization, and insights into the island’s role in Brazil’s fight for independence. Spend an hour here to soak in the rich narratives.

Stroll and Refresh

Take a brief walk through the town, enjoying the local architecture. Stop at a nearby café for some refreshments—perhaps a glass of freshly squeezed sugarcane juice or a traditional acarajé.

Second Stop: Forte de São Lourenço

Next, make your way to the Forte de São Lourenço, about a 20-minute drive north. Built in 1763, this fort overlooks the bay and once served as a defense post against Dutch invaders. The fort now serves as a cultural space with occasional art exhibitions. Explore the remnants of history and enjoy panoramic views from the fort’s walls.

Conclude with Local Art

Cap off your tour by visiting local artisans in the village of Ponta de Areia. Here, you can observe and even participate in the crafting of traditional model boats or intricate lacework, both integral to the island’s artistic heritage.

As the sun sets, catch the ferry back to Salvador, carrying with you the serene and spirited tales of Itaparica.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Salvador Mercado Modelo

Why Visit?

Welcome to Salvador, Brazil, a city of vibrant culture, Afro-Brazilian heritage, and colonial history! No visit to Salvador is complete without a tour of the iconic Mercado Modelo. Situated in the bustling Comércio district, this historic market offers a window into Salvador"s colorful and diverse culture.

Getting There

Mercado Modelo is accessible via Lacerda Elevator, a notable landmark in itself. From the Pelourinho neighborhood, take the elevator down to the lower city (Cidade Baixa). The market sits directly across the plaza. Alternatively, buses and taxis are readily available from various parts of the city.

Start Your Tour

Begin your visit by marveling at the structure of the Mercado Modelo. Built in 1861, it has survived a history marked by fires and renovations, standing today as a vibrant hub for local crafts and goods. The building itself, with its neoclassical features, tells the tale of its resilience and importance to Salvador"s economy and culture.

Explore Inside

Inside, you"ll find over 200 stalls bursting with Bahian crafts, art, and textiles. Each stall offers a unique insight into the local craftsmanship and traditions—perfect for souvenirs and gifts. Don’t miss the traditional berimbau musical instruments or the colorful ribbons from the Church of Bonfim, symbols of faith and good luck.

Cultural Insights

Engage with local artisans and vendors who are often more than happy to share stories behind their crafts. This interaction provides a deeper understanding of the Afro-Brazilian influence on Salvador"s cultural fabric.

Local Cuisine

Make sure to explore the lower floor, where local cuisine can be savored. Try acarajé (a spicy shrimp-stuffed dumpling) and moqueca (a fragrant fish stew), both staples of Bahian cuisine.

End Your Visit

Before leaving, take a moment to enjoy the panoramic view of the Bay of All Saints from the back of the market. It’s a magnificent sight and a perfect photo opportunity to conclude your visit to one of Salvador"s most enduring and beloved landmarks.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Lacerda Elevator (Elevador Lacerda)

Why Visit?

Discover the Elevador Lacerda: A Journey Through Time and Culture

Start your day at the iconic Elevador Lacerda, one of Salvador’s most famous landmarks. This historical elevator connects the bustling Lower City (Cidade Baixa) with the serene Upper City (Cidade Alta), offering breathtaking views of the All Saints Bay (Baía de Todos os Santos).

Getting There

Elevador Lacerda is easily accessible by public transport or taxi from any part of Salvador. If you’re in the Upper City, make your way to Praça Tomé de Sousa for direct access. In the Lower City, head to the vibrant Comércio neighborhood.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Open daily, tickets are purchased on-site for a nominal fee. The elevator operates from early morning till late at night, but for the best views, aim to visit during daylight hours.

Experience

As you step into the elevator, you’re stepping into a piece of history. Constructed in 1873 by Antônio Francisco de Lacerda, the elevator was initially powered by hydraulics and later electrified in 1906. It’s not just a means of transportation but a testament to the city"s rich cultural and architectural heritage.

At the Top

Exiting the elevator in Cidade Alta, you’re greeted by the stunning panorama of the cityscape and coastline. Stroll around the Praça Tomé de Sousa, where you can admire the historic architecture and visit nearby attractions like the São Francisco Church and Convent, renowned for its exquisite baroque interior.

Interesting Fact

Elevador Lacerda is one of the oldest public elevators in the world and was once considered the highest at 63 meters. Today, it serves as a symbol of Salvador’s blend of the old and new, transporting over 28,000 passengers daily.

Wrap up your visit by enjoying a local snack from one of the nearby street vendors, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and cultural richness of Salvador.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Pelourinho

Why Visit?

Discover the vibrant heart of Salvador in the historic district of Pelourinho, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its pastel-colored colonial buildings, cobbled streets, and rich cultural heritage. Dive into a museum hopping tour that brings alive the area"s history and artistic spirit.

Morning: Museu Afro-Brasileiro

Start your day at the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, located within the Universidade Federal da Bahia on Terreiro de Jesus square. Easily accessible by taxi or bus from most parts of the city, this museum displays an impressive collection that illustrates the African influence on Brazilian culture. Highlights include intricately carved wooden panels by Carybé depicting the Orixás of Candomblé, a traditional Afro-Brazilian religion.

Midday: Museu da Misericórdia

A short walk north will take you to the Museu da Misericórdia, a museum housed in a stunning 17th-century building overlooking the Baía de Todos os Santos. The exhibits here tell the story of Bahia"s social and medical history, offering a deep dive into the charitable works of the Santa Casa de Misericórdia. Don"t miss the opulent Sala de Honra, a room beautifully adorned with colonial furniture and sacred art.

Afternoon: Casa do Benin

After lunch in one of the local Afro-Brazilian restaurants, make your way to Casa do Benin, which celebrates the strong ties between Bahia and West Africa, particularly Benin. The journey is a scenic walk through the colonial streets of Pelourinho. This cultural center not only showcases Beninese art but also serves as a vibrant hub for cultural exchange and educational programs.

Late Afternoon: Galeria Solar Ferrão

End your museum tour at Galeria Solar Ferrão, a few minutes" walk from Casa do Benin. Housed in a beautifully restored mansion, this gallery features five floors of eclectic art collections, from African sculptures to works by emerging Brazilian artists.

Throughout your tour in Pelourinho, enjoy the spontaneous bursts of music and dance on the streets, which add an extra layer of charm to this culturally rich neighborhood.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.