Salvador or Bahia da Salvador as it is also known is located on the Northeast coast of Brazil in the Baia de Todos de Santos, All Saints Bay.
One of the cities with the richest of histories, Salvador was the first capital of Brazil and remained so until 1763. Originally a vast trade port dealing in Sugar export and playing a major role in the Slave Trade, Salvador was one of the pillars of the Portuguese colonies which is evident in the rich architecture that is still visible today in the Pelourinho – the old city centre. Dating back to 1549 the city of Salvador is awash with historical buildings and places of interest such as the oldest Cathedral in Brazil dating back to 1572.
The city is divided into two parts, uptown and downtown which are literally up and down! The incredible Lacerda elevator transports pedestrians between the two altitudes of the city the higher of which containing the Pelourinho district and more affluent areas of the city.
Salvador is home to some amazing beaches and is a favourite for both foreign and Brazilian tourists. The islands just off the coast are also popular for their beaches and other tourist attractions such Itaparica home to one of the ATP tennis tournaments.
Due to Salvador once being the centre of the Slave Trade in Brazil the city has a vast African influence and population. The Afro-Brazilian culture is richly evident in the music and food of the area and helps to give Salvador its own individual feel.
Why not take a look at the interactive map of Salvador via the menu on the left to get a better view of the parts of the city that interest you.