Lapa & Santa Teresa
Selarón Steps
A staircase that became a work of art. Covered in bright tiles from all over the world, the Selarón Steps link Lapa to Santa Teresa and are one of the most photographed places in Rio.
- Location
- Between Lapa and Santa Teresa
- Steps
- 215
- Tiles
- More than 2,000, from over 60 countries
- Artist
- Jorge Selarón (1947–2013)
One artist’s tribute
Jorge Selarón, a Chilean-born artist who lived beside the stairs, began covering them in 1990 with pieces of tile in the green, yellow and blue of the Brazilian flag. What started as a small project became his life’s work, which he called his tribute to the Brazilian people.
As the steps became famous, travelers began bringing and sending tiles from their own countries. Selarón kept changing the work until his death in 2013. Today the 215 steps and the walls beside them are covered from top to bottom.
Tiles from all over the world
Look closely and you’ll find tiles from more than 60 countries, along with a painted tile of a pregnant woman that Selarón repeated hundreds of times. Finding a tile from your own country is part of the fun.
Tips for your visit
The steps are busiest in the middle of the day, so earlier visits make it easier to take photos without crowds. Wear comfortable shoes and keep your belongings close, as in any busy area of a big city.
Visiting with Marcio
Marcio shares the stories behind the tiles, helps you find one from home and knows the angles for the best photos. The steps are part of the Best of Rio in One Day and fit easily into a custom tour of Lapa and Santa Teresa.
How many steps does the Selarón Staircase have?
215 steps, connecting the Lapa neighborhood with Santa Teresa.
Is it free to visit the Selarón Steps?
Yes. The steps are a public street, and there is no ticket.
