Selaron Stairs – the rainbow steps in Rio

Selaron Stairs – the rainbow steps in Rio

Nestled in the colorful Lapa neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, lies a true gem that has captured the world’s attention: the Selarón Stairs, also known as the Escadaria Selarón. These world-renowned steps were designed by the talented Chilean-born artist Jorge Selarón and have become a popular tourist attraction and a city symbol. With their vibrant colors and stunning mosaic tile work, the Selarón Stairs are truly a sight to behold and a must-see for anyone visiting Rio de Janeiro.

The stairs consist of over 215 steps covered in over 2,000 brightly colored tiles worldwide. He began working on the stairs in 1990 and spent over 20 years adding and perfecting the artwork. Each tile on the stairs was carefully selected by the artist and arranged in intricate patterns and designs, creating a unique and vibrant visual experience for visitors.

The stairs were created to beautify a rundown and neglected area of Lapa. The artist’s goal was to create a symbol of unity and peace. Selarón stated, “The stairs are a tribute to the Brazilian people, their hospitality, and the fantastic openness of their hearts.” It has become an iconic and beloved landmark in Rio, attracting thousands of yearly visitors. Many people climb the steps to take pictures in the colorful tilework. The stairs are also a popular spot for street vendors and performers.

The stairs also demonstrate the city’s vibrant street art and culture. Selarón’s art reflects the city’s energy, and many see the stairs as a representation of the diversity and creativity that Rio de Janeiro is known for. The artist himself lived in the house next to the stairs. Even though Selarón passed away in 2013, the stairs remain maintained and open to visitors and locals alike as a legacy of his passion and dedication.

While the Selarón Stairs is a beautiful and unique attraction, they are also an active public space, and it’s essential to respect the people who live and work in the area. Visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and not block the stairs or disturb the residents.

One of the fascinating things about the stairs is its unique story, from a project to beautify an abandoned space to become an iconic spot – Selarón’s legacy will always be remembered in Rio de Janeiro.

It’s easy to see why the Selarón Stairs have become such a popular tourist attraction and beloved landmark in Rio de Janeiro. The vibrant tilework and intricate designs are a feast for the eyes. It captures Rio de Janeiro’s energy and symbolizes resilience and creativity, a testament to one man’s passion for beautifying a neglected neighborhood and to the spirit of the people of Rio de Janeiro. It’s a unique and vibrant place to visit, and it’s a place to be seen and admired.

Getting to the Selarón Stairs

Here are some ways to get to the Selarón Stairs:

By taxi or ride-hailing app: Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber and 99 are widely available in Rio de Janeiro. Simply tell the driver you want to go to the Selarón Stairs; they should know where to take you.

By public transportation: The nearest metro station to the Selarón Stairs is Cinelândia, located on Metro Line 1. From there, you can take a short walk up the stairs. Alternatively, you can take a bus to the Lapa Arches, which are located nearby.

On foot: If you’re staying in the city center, you can walk to the Selarón Stairs. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the Lapa Arches or a 30-minute walk from Cinelândia.

Once you arrive at the Selarón Stairs, you can admire the vibrant mosaic tiles that cover the steps and take in the lively neighborhood of Lapa, known for its nightlife and samba music. Remember that the area can be crowded with tourists, so visiting during off-peak hours is best to avoid crowds.

Safety tips

While visiting the Selarón Stairs in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, it’s important to remember your safety. Here are some tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit:

• Be aware of your surroundings: The area around the Selarón Stairs can be crowded with tourists, making it a prime target for pickpockets and other opportunistic thieves. Keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Visit during the day: Visiting the Selarón Stairs during daylight hours is generally safer, as the area can be less crowded and easier to navigate. Avoid visiting at night or early morning hours when the area can be more dangerous.
• Stick to well-lit and populated areas: Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and avoid wandering down side streets or alleys alone.
• Use a reputable taxi or ride-hailing service: If you’re taking a taxi or ride-hailing service, be sure to use a reputable company and only hail cabs from the designated taxi stand.
• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash: Don’t wear flashy jewelry or large amounts of cash while visiting the Selarón Stairs, as it can attract unwanted attention from thieves.

By following these safety tips and exercising caution while visiting the Selaron Stairs – the rainbow steps in Rio, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience exploring this beautiful and iconic attraction in Rio de Janeiro. To read more about Brazil, click HERE.

XOXO