At Largo do Pelourinho in Salvador’s historic centre, the Casa de Jorge Amado Foundation explores the life and writing of Jorge Amado and his wife, Zélia Gattai. The 19th-century colonial building holds editions of Amado’s novels, photographs, manuscripts, letters, videos and objects connected with the writers. Look for material on Bahian literature and adaptations of their work, then head to the upper floor for views over the city. A café and shop add a place to pause and browse artwork reproductions.
A colonial building devoted to literature
The foundation opened on March 7, 1987, to preserve, study and share the work of Jorge Amado and Zélia Gattai, as well as the art and culture of Bahia. It occupies a 19th-century colonial property facing Largo do Pelourinho, in Salvador’s historic centre.
The collection brings together material from the writers’ lives and careers. Amado’s novels appear in editions translated into 49 languages, alongside photographs, posters, videos and personal objects. Letters, manuscripts and other documents are also kept here, with archival material available to researchers and scholars.
What the collection covers
The displays extend beyond books. Photographs and documents trace the authors’ lives, while the collection also includes material on Bahian literature and the region’s cultural life. More than 400 videos cover subjects including interviews, reports, award ceremonies and screen adaptations of the writers’ work.
The foundation’s role includes research and educational activity, not only exhibition. It supports study of Amado’s writing and Bahian art and literature, and has a programme of activities intended to encourage new writers. That combination gives the visit a wider focus than a display of an author’s belongings alone.
Looking beyond the displays
Amado’s novels are closely connected to Bahia, including its Afro-Brazilian culture, street life and social struggles. Seeing his work alongside photographs, manuscripts and adaptations can add context to the places and stories encountered elsewhere in Salvador.
The foundation also has a café and a shop. The shop sells reproductions of artwork displayed in the building. If you want to explore the writer’s legacy further, Salvador has another institution dedicated to Jorge Amado; visiting both gives you a broader view of his place in the city’s cultural life.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is entry to the Casa de Jorge Amado Foundation free?
Entry is free on Wednesdays. The supplied information does not state the admission price on other days.
What can you see at the foundation?
The collection includes editions of Jorge Amado’s novels, photographs, videos, posters, objects, letters and manuscripts, along with material on Zélia Gattai and Bahian literature.
Where is the Casa de Jorge Amado Foundation?
It is at Largo do Pelourinho in Salvador’s historic centre.
Is the foundation wheelchair accessible?
The entrance and restroom are listed as wheelchair accessible.
