Jorge Selarón funded much of the project by selling his own paintings after neighbors initially criticized his choice of colors.
The tiles represent a global archive, featuring ceramic pieces from regions as diverse as Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
The staircase was officially designated as a landmark of Rio de Janeiro in 2005.
Selarón considered the work a 'living, mutating dream' that was never truly finished during his lifetime.
The installation spans the boundary between the bohemian Lapa nightlife district and the elevated streets of Santa Teresa.
Some tiles contain historical imagery, including political figures and regional cultural icons.
The steps are technically known as the Rua Manuel Carneiro staircase.
Escadaria Selarón is a 125-meter-long staircase consisting of 215 steps decorated with over 2,000 tiles collected from more than 60 countries. Created by Chilean-born artist Jorge Selarón, the project began in 1990 as a personal tribute to the Brazilian people. The artist sourced tiles from various regions, including donations from visitors and tiles he manufactured himself. The design evolved continuously until his death in 2013, covering the steps that link the neighborhoods of Lapa and Santa Teresa. The mosaic includes a distinctive recurring motif of a pregnant African woman, a tribute to a figure from Selarón's past. The staircase has served as a backdrop for numerous international music videos and fashion shoots. It is maintained by the local community and stands as an enduring example of street art integrated into urban infrastructure.
The lower section of the stairs provides the most iconic perspective looking up toward the Santa Teresa slope.
Visit early in the morning to capture photos without heavy crowds.
Watch your footing as the tiles can be slippery, especially if moisture is present.
Stay alert regarding your personal belongings, as the high foot traffic attracts opportunistic petty theft.
Avoid visiting alone at night, as the immediate surrounding area becomes deserted and less secure.
Avoid sitting on the steps for extended periods if crowds are present; do not remove or deface tiles.
