About Salvador
The first capital of Brazil, Salvador was the most important port of the South Atlantic till the middle of the 18th century. Considered today as the principal entrance gateway to Brazilian northeastern tourism, Salvador gained fame for its rich religious influence. This is a result of a climate of fraternal conviviality, that joins Catholics to the Candomblé voodoo rites. The typical and religious festivities, which have Carnival as its greatest event, extend throughout the whole year. The influence of the slaves from Africa (during the Portuguese colonial times and even after that till just before the country became a republic) can be clearly noticed: the majority of the population is afro-descendant, the typical food, the music and even in many words. The Portuguese influence can be observed in the architecture, religious festivities and military.
As a result of a defense strategy, the city was founded on a cliff, being today considered as composed of two parts: the high and the lower city. One gets lost in the slopes of the High City where the streets and slopes of Pelourinho, reformed some years ago, invite you to stroll amongst small handicraft shops. One should take time also to savor the delights found on the sidewalks in the trays of the Bahia people: from 'vatapá' (seasoned dish made of manioc-cassava meal mixed with fish) to 'acarajé' (a cake of cooked beans fired in dendê-palm oil). From there one also has a privileged view of the Bay of All Saints with its fortresses. The Fort of Santo Antonio da Barra (from 1598), that shelters the famous Farol da Barra (Barra Lighthouse) and the Nautical Museum of Bahia.
All the historical complex of Pelourinho is an obligatory visit. The ideal is to leave the car in a nearby area (of course taxis and buses are also available) and cover the whole area on foot. Apart from the Bonfim Church (a pilgrim center), there are other beautiful religious buildings such as the Convent of São Francisco.
To get a map of Salvador, please click here: http://maps.google.com