The original elevator, known as the Elevador Hidráulico, was powered by water pressure from tanks located at the top of the towers.
It was renamed in 1896 in honor of Antonio de Lacerda, the visionary businessman who financed its original construction.
The structure survived a transition from hydraulic power to electric motors during the 20th-century modernization.
It is considered a national heritage site by the Brazilian National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN).
The Art Deco design, visible today, was implemented by architect Fleming Thiesen.
Elevador Lacerda is the world's first urban public elevator, connecting the lower city (Comércio) to the historic upper city (Pelourinho) in Salvador. Inaugurated in 1873, the current structure utilizes four high-speed electric cabins to transport thousands of passengers daily. It bridges a 72-meter height difference between the Port of Salvador and the colonial town center. The Art Deco exterior design was added during a 1930 renovation, replacing the original Neoclassical facade. It serves as an essential transit artery for local commuters rather than solely a tourist attraction. The structure is integrated into the city’s public mobility infrastructure managed by the municipal government.
From the observation deck at the top, looking down toward the Mercado Modelo and the Bay of All Saints.
Use the elevator to transit between the port area and the Pelourinho neighborhood to avoid steep, exhausting climbs.
Carry exact change if you are not using a local transit card, as local payment systems may require it.
Visit during non-peak hours to avoid waiting in long lines with local commuters.
Do not attempt to walk up or down the steep, unmarked stairs between the upper and lower city at night.
Operates daily throughout the year, but may experience temporary maintenance closures during public holidays.
