Audio Guide of Historic Square

The Square is an open-air public plaza, so access is free and it is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, the real magic begins after 5:00 PM, when the shops open and the lights come on; you can easily find it on this Google Maps map.

Entry to the historic area and a walk through its gardens is completely free. You will only need to plan a budget if you decide to dine at its renowned restaurants or buy local handicrafts in the colorful little houses surrounding the square.

To walk around the perimeter, see the church, and take photos, you will need approximately one hour. If you want to enjoy the full experience with a relaxed dinner and take in the nighttime atmosphere, we suggest setting aside at least 3 hours of your evening.

This site is a former Jesuit mission founded in 1586 and preserves the Church of Saint John the Baptist, one of the oldest churches in Brazil. It is a vital heritage site that has kept the colonial architecture and the essence of Bahia’s earliest settlements intact.

The best time of day is at sunset, to watch the transition from natural light to the romantic glow of lanterns and candles in the trees. Although it can be visited year-round, the atmosphere is especially lively during the Brazilian summer, from December to February, and during the Feast of Saint Blaise.

Access can be challenging because the ground is natural, uneven grass, and there is no modern paving in order to preserve its history. If you use a wheelchair, you will need a companion or assistance to move across the rustic terrain.

Just behind the small white church is the famous viewpoint with spectacular sea views. From there you can access beautiful beaches such as Coconut Trees Beach or Natives Beach.

Wear comfortable flat shoes and avoid heels because of the uneven ground, and use insect repellent if you go at sunset. To truly understand what you are seeing without missing any detail, we recommend complementing your walk with a specialized audio guide.