Cathedral of Salvador (Catedral Basílica de Salvador)
The Primatial Cathedral Basilica of the Transfiguration of the Lord, commonly called the Cathedral of Salvador, stands in the Terreiro de Jesus square in the historic centre of Salvador, Bahia. Originally built between 1657 and 1672 as the church of the Jesuit college, it is regarded as one of the finest examples of Mannerist architecture in the former Portuguese empire. Its sober façade is built of light Lioz limestone shipped as ballast from Portugal, a hallmark of early colonial Bahian construction.
After the city's original cathedral was demolished in 1933 to make way for a tram line, the former Jesuit church inherited the role of cathedral for the Archdiocese of São Salvador da Bahia, the primatial see of Brazil. The interior is celebrated for its richly gilded Baroque and Renaissance altarpieces and chapels spanning the 16th to 18th centuries, as well as a sacristy often described as among the most beautiful in Brazil, with paintings, jacaranda woodwork and azulejo tiling.
As part of the Historic Centre of Salvador, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, the cathedral is a focal point of the city's colonial heritage and a major draw for visitors exploring the Pelourinho district. It was designated a national monument by Brazil's heritage authority in 1938 and continues to serve as an active place of worship. Pilgrims and tourists alike come to admire its art, attend Mass and take in the surrounding ensemble of historic churches and squares.
- Location
- -12.9729, -38.5103
- Local time
- 19:39 (America/Bahia)
🕘 Visiting hours
| Mon–Sat | 08:30–17:00 |
| Sun | Closed |
Closed to tourists during Sunday Mass; modest admission fee for visitors.
✨ Saints & blessed venerated here
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Christ the Lord (Transfiguration) Saint
The cathedral is dedicated to the Transfiguration of the Lord.
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Saint Ignatius of Loyola Saint
Founder of the Jesuits, who built the original church.
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Saint Francis Xavier Saint
Jesuit missionary venerated in the order's Brazilian churches.
Care & donations
Archdiocese of São Salvador da Bahia
Small entry contribution requested; donations support the cathedral's upkeep.
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