Landmark

Escadaria Selarón

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Escadaria SelarónJtk33 · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0
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Escadaria Selarón is a dazzling mosaic staircase connecting the Lapa and Santa Teresa neighborhoods. Chilean-born artist Jorge Selarón began the project in 1990 as a tribute to the Brazilian people, covering the 215 steps with tiles he collected from all over the world. The result is a constantly evolving work of art, with tiles depicting everything from Brazilian flags to portraits of babies. Visitors can climb the steps, spotting tiles from their own countries, and enjoy the ever-changing kaleidoscope of colors. The staircase has become an iconic Rio landmark, featured in music videos and films.

Don't miss

  • Search for tiles from your own country among the thousands collected from 60 nations.
  • Spot the iconic red-tiled portrait of a pregnant African woman, a recurring motif by Selarón.
  • Climb to the top for a view back down the colorful cascade and into Santa Teresa.

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Ways to visit Escadaria Selarón

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

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