Salvador, or Salvador da Bahia (Salvador of Bahia), is a city located on the northeast coast
of Brazil. It is the Capital city of the northeastern Brazilian state of Bahia. Salvador is
surrounded by the south-west with Aracaju, south-west with Recife, Vitoria in the
north and by northeast to Rio de Janeiro.
Salvador City, Bahia State
It was the first town to be founded in Brazil, on March 29th 1549; the city was for a long
time known as Bahia, and appears under that name on many maps and books from before the mid
20th century, it was the seat of government of the colony. But in 1763, it was succeeded by
Rio de Janeiro.
For three centuries it was the principal port for the import of slaves from Africa. Afro-American
peoples and mulattos now form the majority of the population, and African influence is evident
in the life of the city in many different fields, in music, cuisine, in religious cults such
as Candomblé and Umbanda.
The coastline of Salvador is equally varied, having majestic, sandy beaches, mangrove swamps,
sea cliffs and few islands. Itaparica is the largest among them. The best of the many beaches
are the Praias do Farol da Barra, do Rio Vermelho, de Amaralina, do Jardim de Alá, de Piatã,
de Placaford, de Itapoã, do Farol de Itapoã, do Flamengo and de Stella Maris.
The port and city still play a critical role in the economy of northeastern Brazil, providing
commercial services for a vast region and exporting cocoa, sisal, soybeans, and petrochemical
products. Local industries include fishing, oil and gas extraction, cigar manufacture, a
petrochemical, the complex at Camaçari (an assembling plant of the Ford Motor Company), an oil
refinery, and tourism.
Salvador is the second most popular tourist destination in Brazil. Tourism and cultural
activity are important generators of jobs. Chief among the points of interest are its
famous Pelourinho district, its historic churches, and its beaches. Salvador's tourism
infrastructure is considered one of the most modern in Brazil, especially in terms of
accommodation.
Salvador City at Night, Bahia State
It was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It boasts one of the largest collections
of colonial and Baroque architecture in Latin America. Also, there are several museums and
archaeological buildings in this city which should not be missed out during the holiday trip
to Salvador. After Unesco sponsored a restoration project, the area has become the focus of
cultural life. During the day, the area is the domain of craftsmen and artists. At night it
becomes a rhythmic variety.
Salvador has a typical tropical climate, with warm to hot temperatures and high relative
humidity all through the year. However, these conditions are relieved by a near absence of
extreme temperatures and trade winds blowing from the ocean. March is the warmest month of
this city. July enjoys the coolest temperatures. Through the whole year Salvador faces heavy
rainfall. Salvador offers lush tropical vegetation.
For a true taste of Brazil’s fascinating Afro-American culture, Salvador is one of the best
choices. It offers excellent accommodations, hotels, restaurants, abundance of amenities,
attractions, etc., of the Brazilian culture.