Overview
Built in the 18th century, the São Francisco Church is a Portuguese Baroque masterpiece with walls and ceilings covered in approximately 800kg of gold leaf, earning it the nickname 'the Golden Church.' It is considered the finest example of colonial religious art in Brazil. Intricately carved wooden angels, flowers, and animal motifs shimmer under the gold. The adjacent convent's azulejo (Portuguese blue-and-white tile) decoration is also beautiful, and its location in the heart of Pelourinho makes it easy to reach.
Travel Tips
Be sure to visit when exploring Pelourinho. Photography is allowed inside. Bring binoculars to examine the intricate gold detail on the ceiling.
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🇰🇷 Tips for Korean Travelers
Practical info for Korean travelers heading to Salvador, Brazil from Seoul (ICN).
Korean Passport · Visa
Check visa rules for Brazil on the Korean MOFA travel advisory site before flying — visa-free, visa-on-arrival or e-visa rules change often. Keep at least 6 months of passport validity.
Flight from Incheon (ICN)
Compare direct and connecting flights from Incheon (ICN) to Salvador on Skyscanner or Google Flights. Early-morning departures from Korea are usually the cheapest option.
KRW ↔ Local Currency
Check the live FX widget above for the latest KRW rate. Korean travel cards like Travel Wallet, Hana EZ and Toss FX offer free local ATM withdrawals and competitive rates.
Korean Community · Korean Food
Many cities have an active Korean community in Salvador with Korean restaurants, mini-marts, and Korean-speaking guides. Search Naver Cafe or KakaoTalk open chats for "Salvador 한인" before you go.
Attractions near São Francisco Church
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Things to Do in Salvador
Capoeira Class Experience
Learn capoeira basics and instruments from a local mestre in Salvador, the birthplace of this martial art. Experience the essence of Afro-Brazilian culture that blends fighting, dance, and music.
Olodum Drum Performance
Watch the Olodum Afro-Brazilian drum group perform live every Tuesday evening in Pelourinho. The powerful drumming parade through the streets is a Salvador highlight.
Bahian Cooking Class
Cook authentic Bahian dishes like acarajé, moqueca, and vatapá with a local chef. The class starts with ingredient shopping at Feira de São Joaquim and ends with a shared meal.