Palácio Rio Branco
See where it all began at this neoclassic beauty, constructed on the site of Brazil's first government building. Dating back to 1549, the Palace reopened in 2010 after an extensive, two-year restoration and today stands as a cultural center, housing Salvador's Chamber of Commerce, the Cultural Foundation of the State of Bahia, and the state tourist office. On the first floor there's a small memorial museum depicting the last two centuries of local history. Stop by for one of the guided visits around the Palacio's elaborate chambers, led by local graduates every half hour. Get a great view of Cidade Baixa and the bay from the east balcony.
