Palacio Rio Branco (Rio Branco Palace), Salvador

It’s not a church, not a theater, and definitely not just another old building. The Rio Branco Palace is Salvador’s grand dame, standing proud and clutching centuries of Brazilian history in its embrace. Born in 1549—right alongside Brazil’s first capital—this grand landmark’s story is packed with drama, reinvention, and a dash of opulence.

Originally a no-frills government headquarters, the palace served as a command center, residence, and administrative hub for the Portuguese crown. History wasn’t always kind. By 1912, it had taken a devastating hit—bombed to ruins. But like any great landmark, it made a comeback, reopening in 1919 under its current name, a tribute to the revered Baron of Rio Branco. Since then, it’s played many roles: barracks, prison, cultural headquarters, and now, home to Bahia’s Department of Culture.

What visitors might not know is that the ground floor is open to the public, offering one of Salvador’s unparalleled views. Sure, you’ve snapped the Lacerda Lift from every angle, but have you gazed at it from the palace’s unique vantage point? With the Bay of All Saints, Saint Marcelo Fort, and the bustling Lower City unfurled before you, this is the ultimate picture-perfect experience.

Inside, the Memorial of Governors adds another layer of fascination—a treasure chest of artifacts that narrate Brazil’s rich past. Insignias, swords, city keys, and even personal trinkets—ashtrays, letter openers, you name it—paint a picture of the people who helped shape the nation. Salvador’s identity is deeply tied to this memorial. And for the true history lovers out there, a guided tour of the ground-floor rooms is the icing on the cake.