São Francisco Church and Convent
A dazzling Baroque masterpiece, this church and convent boasts an interior covered in gold leaf and stunning Portuguese tiles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
São Francisco Church and Convent
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dazzling Baroque masterpiece, this church and convent boasts an interior covered in gold leaf and stunning Portuguese tiles.
"Prepare to be amazed by one of the world's most beautiful churches, a true Baroque jewel."
Don't Miss the Guided Tour
Essential for understanding the history & art. Available in English, Spanish, Portuguese. :informationdeskperson:
Prepare for Gold Overload!
The interior is famously covered in gold leaf. It's truly a sight to behold. :sparkles:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gilded Interior
Main Nave
Prepare to be dazzled by the sheer amount of gold leaf covering the walls, pillars, and ceilings. It's a breathtaking display of Baroque artistry.
+1
Baroque Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Marvel at the intricate Portuguese Baroque style, considered one of the finest examples in the world, showcasing immense wealth and splendor.
+2
Convent Courtyard
Cloister
The courtyard is adorned with stunning hand-painted Portuguese tiles (azulejos), offering a serene and historically rich atmosphere.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Guided Tour
Dress Respectfully
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Don't Miss the Guided Tour
Essential for understanding the history & art. Available in English, Spanish, Portuguese. :informationdeskperson:
Prepare for Gold Overload!
The interior is famously covered in gold leaf. It's truly a sight to behold.
Admire the Azulejos
The convent courtyard features beautiful hand-painted Portuguese tiles.
Modest Dress Appreciated
As a religious site, consider covering shoulders and knees. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
Don't Miss the Guided Tour
Essential for understanding the history & art. Available in English, Spanish, Portuguese. :informationdeskperson:
Prepare for Gold Overload!
The interior is famously covered in gold leaf. It's truly a sight to behold.
Admire the Azulejos
The convent courtyard features beautiful hand-painted Portuguese tiles.
Modest Dress Appreciated
As a religious site, consider covering shoulders and knees. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the São Francisco Church and Convent as an awe-inspiring cultural and historical gem. The sheer opulence of the gilded Baroque interior and the beauty of the azulejo-tiled cloister are frequently highlighted as unforgettable experiences. While the entry fee is modest, the included guided tours are considered essential for appreciating the rich history and artistry. Some visitors note that it can get crowded, but the overall consensus is that it's a must-visit in Salvador.
"Well worth a visit, a nice, cultural alternative to take a rest from the beautiful beaches here!"
L Cosgrave
"A massive church that is gorgeous inside. For an entry fee of R$15 (R$7.50 for students and elderly), one receives a private guided tour (in English, Spanish, or Portuguese) where someone working in the church walks you through each of the rooms, explains the history, and shows you around.
Besides the altar and the main room, one also gets to see the chapel, the sacristy, exhibition space, the cloister, the chorus, and many other rooms.
It was truly such a cool experience to see the different styles with many baroque elements."
James
"Amazing place with a rich history; I was not expecting such an amazing cultural heritage."
Valdenio Gomes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in the historic Pelourinho district of Salvador. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or public bus. Walking is also an option if you are staying nearby in the historic center.
While the historic center is a major tourist attraction, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially if traveling alone or at night. Stick to well-lit and populated areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a modest entry fee, typically around R$15, with concessions for students and the elderly. This fee often includes a guided tour.
Yes, a guided tour is usually included with the admission fee. Guides are knowledgeable and can explain the rich history and art within the church and convent.
Guided tours are typically available in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for international visitors.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours on weekdays and Saturdays. It's always a good idea to check the most current hours before your visit.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The most striking feature is undoubtedly the interior, which is lavishly decorated with an immense amount of gold leaf, showcasing exceptional Baroque artistry.
Beyond the main altar and nave, tours often include visits to the sacristy, chapels, exhibition spaces, the cloister with its azulejo tiles, and other historical rooms.
Photography is generally permitted, but it's always respectful to ask your guide or check for any posted restrictions, especially regarding flash photography.
A visit, including the guided tour, can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest and the depth of the tour.
It's a significant colonial monument in Brazil, considered one of the most beautiful examples of Portuguese Baroque architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
📸 📸 Photography
The gilded interior, the azulejo-tiled cloister, and the ornate facade offer fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the grandeur of the gold leaf and the intricate tile work.
While generally allowed, avoid using flash inside the church to protect the delicate artwork and maintain the solemn atmosphere. Always be mindful of other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Be mindful of lighting conditions and any restrictions on flash photography. The intricate carvings and the sheer scale of the gold leaf present endless creative possibilities. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dazzling Baroque Interior
+1 The sheer scale of the gold, estimated to be around 80kg, is astonishing and a primary reason for its fame. Beyond the gold, the intricate details of the Baroque style are evident in the ornate altars, sculptures, and ceiling paintings. The sacristy is particularly noteworthy, often featuring elaborate woodwork and religious artifacts. Visitors are often surprised by the sheer density of artistic elements, making it a truly immersive experience. The guided tours are crucial for appreciating the symbolism and craftsmanship behind each element, transforming a visual feast into a historical narrative.
This architectural marvel is not just a church; it's a historical document of Brazil's colonial past and its deep connection to Portuguese culture and religious devotion. The Seven Wonders of the Portuguese World designation underscores its global importance.
Exploring this space is like stepping back in time, offering a profound glimpse into the artistic and spiritual heritage of Salvador. The Serene Convent and Azulejo Courtyard
+1Walking through the cloister, surrounded by these blue and white masterpieces, provides a moment of quiet reflection. The cool, tiled walls and the open-air setting create a peaceful ambiance, a stark contrast to the dazzling gold of the church. The convent also houses various rooms that were once part of monastic life, including cells, refectories, and chapels, each offering insights into the daily routines of the Franciscan friars.
These tiled walls are not merely decorative; they are a form of storytelling, preserving historical events and religious teachings in a visually accessible format. The guided tours often highlight specific panels and their meanings, enriching the visitor's understanding of both the art and the history. The convent serves as a vital complement to the church, showcasing a different facet of the complex's artistic and spiritual heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit