Palacio da Aclamacao (Palace of Acclamation), Salvador

Salvador’s Palace of Acclamation sits like a stately grande dame beside the serene Public Promenade (“Passeio Público”) gardens, all elegance and history in one impressive package. Once the stylish crib of the wealthy Moraes family-back when it was known as the equally fancy “Palacete dos Moraes”-this historic gem eventually absorbed a neighboring house, now home to the State Cultural Council. Built between 1912 and 1917 under Governor José Joaquim Seabra’s ambitious watch, the palace channels an unapologetically extravagant Versailles-inspired vibe-perfectly matched to Seabra’s grand tastes and even grander ego. The name “Acclamation” itself nods to Brazil’s republican ideals with a touch of royal flair.

For fifty years (1917–1967), it served as the governors’ official residence-welcoming dignitaries including the Queen of Great Britain-before opening its grand doors to the arts and culture. Inside, you’ll find a wonderland of framed panels, exquisite paintings, luxurious furniture, Persian rugs, gleaming porcelain, crystal, bronze accents, and celebrated French artworks. Today, the palace teeters on the edge of a new role: whispers hint at its transformation into the Northeast’s very first Banco do Brasil-run cultural center (CCBB). Negotiations are underway, promising an exciting new chapter-or at least an entertaining encore.