Salvador is a city with a rich and interesting history. Outside of doing a walking tour, which is one of the most recommended activities, there are 3 museums that I think you should go to that will enhance your Salvador experience, culturally.
- Cidade da Música da Bahia
- Museu Nacional da Cultura Afro-Basileira
- Fundação Casa de Jorge Amado and A Casa do Rio Vermelho
Museums have always attracted me with the valuable information, history, or visual stimulation they give my brain. During each visit I receive something valuable in return. It’s an introvert’s paradise – a moment of peace. During my short stop in Salvador, the 3 places listed above were on my list of things to do. They were worth the time spent, not only for the museums themselves, but also for their location in the historical district of Pelourinho. The 2 levels of the neighborhood had a unique contrast.
Cidade da Música da Bahia
For those of you that don’t know, Salvador is the capital of the state of Bahia, a place rich in music tradition. This museum displays the impressive variety of music that comes from the region, both old and new. It consists of several booths with speakers and tv screens, showcasing different artists and their work. If you’re lucky enough you could join a free music class and maybe even get a chance to play some popular instruments. I suggest you check any potential event schedule of the museum before arriving.
Museu Nacional da Cultura Afro-Brasileira
Bahia is the epicenter of Afro-Brazilian culture in Brazil. This museum is essentially an art museum, exhibiting a beautiful selection of paintings, abstract instillations, along with some sculptures and photography. If you’re a fan of art, this is a must see. I thoroughly enjoyed all of the work, and took a liking to the specific styles on display. It’s large enough to spend a good amount of time there, but not so much that you need to rush through everything. Take your time. During certain times of the day, you’ll come across some music performances or rehearsals.
Fundação Casa de Jorge Armado
Jorge Amado was one of Brazil’s most celebrated authors, known for his depictions of Bahian culture and social injustice. He lived a remarkable life and was linked to other famous activists like Pablo Neruda of Chile, traveling the world in support of social causes. His work involved ideological novels to more lyrical portrayals of life in Salvador.
The museum is a timeline of his life, consisting of mostly photos accompanied by depictions written completely in Portuguese. It’s still can be worth a visit if you don’t speak any Portuguese, provided that you choose to learn about the celebrated author before going.
If you’re interested, A Casa do Rio Vermelho is a former home of his, which has been turned into a museum as well. It’s a stylish abode filled with a nice art and collectables, and there a guides stationed around to offer fun facts and answer questions. Plus, it’s English friendly. It’s located in the bohemian neighborhood of Rio Vermelho, hence the name.
Catch a Sunset in Barra
You can watch the sunset from Museu Náutico da Bahia – Farol da Barra, or Praia do Porto da Barra, both in the same area. I took a particular liking to the Santo Antonio neighborhood as well, which is located next to Pelourinho (not for the sunset, just in general).
