Dating from 1552, the Castelo was the first great Portuguese edifice in Brazil. Desperate to colonize, the king of Portugal granted lands to merchants, soldiers and aristocrats; a farmer named Garcia d’Ávila, endowed with this tract of land, chose this ocean-view plot for his home. Today, it’s an impressive ruin with sweeping views. It’s 7km outside of town – take a taxi.
Castelo do Garcia d’Ávila
Bahia
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
1.84 MILES
The extremely worthwhile Tamar Project station, designed to protect endangered sea turtles, is located on the beach next to the church and lighthouse.
1.5 MILES
Just outside of town you'll find the dramatic entrance for this charming coastal park – a long wooden bridge over a buzzing lagoon. Inside the park is a 3…
Nearby Bahia attractions
1.5 MILES
Just outside of town you'll find the dramatic entrance for this charming coastal park – a long wooden bridge over a buzzing lagoon. Inside the park is a 3…
1.84 MILES
The extremely worthwhile Tamar Project station, designed to protect endangered sea turtles, is located on the beach next to the church and lighthouse.