Escadaria Selarón | Selaron Steps

Selarón Steps (Escadaria Selarón) : A Tragic Love Story

Selarón Steps
Selarón Steps cc licensed photo by Rogério Zgiet

The steps of Selarón situated on Rua Joaquim Silvia Selarón Lapa are to Rio what the Spanish steps are to Rome. Beautifully tiled with mosaic tiles and mirror, these 250 steps, measuring 125 metres long, are a true artistic feat requiring years of hard work and dedication.

In order to complete the work of art as it now stands more than 2,000 tiles collected from more than 60 countries were used. Despite its immense beauty the Escadaria Selarón is about more than just an artistic feat. It is a love story that ended in tragedy very befitting the Latin culture of love and tragedy. These steps truly are a must see when visiting Rio.

The story of Escadaria Selarón starts with a Chilean artist named Jorge Selarón who settled in Rio in 1983. After travelling the world and visiting 57 countries, he decided to call Rio home. This artist decided to begin with renovating the steps close to where he lived on a whim as the area was extremely run down and the grey steps an empty canvas for someone with an artistic eye. In the year 1990 Jorge began work on the steps, not having the funds to begin such a project he began to collect old tiles from construction sites and many other places in the area. As he soon ran out of tiles he funded his project by selling his paintings and sculptures. As he continued his work he accepted donations from passers-by and foreigners in order to complete his work. Many times his friends who travelled would bring back tiles that they collected for him from different countries.

Though he was first mocked by the people in the area for his use of greens, blues and yellows, the colours of the Brazilian flag he kept working on his solitary art piece which he called his tribute to the Brazilian people. What started out as an idea turned out to be an all-consuming passion, a labour of love for the country he had come to call home.

The steps soon became a tourist attraction as people came to see the artist working day and night on these steps. The work lasted more than 20 years before his dead body was found on the very steps named after him. Although an official cause of death has not been established it is speculated that he committed suicide brought on by depression.

Take a moment to look at the steps and speculate on Jorge's passion for the Brazilian people.



Facts For Your Visit

Fee: No

Escadaria Selarón | Selaron Steps Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours
  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: Open 24 hours

Address: R. Manuel Carneiro - Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20241-120, Brazil

Official Website: Escadaria Selarón | Selaron Steps

Escadaria Selarón | Selaron Steps Reviews

Rated 4.6 out of 5 Star Rating

4 Star Rating Nice place to visit. Crowded. Nice to take some pictures. You can find tiles from all around the world, but it is located far from downtown. It needs just few minutes to be done .
Ali Al-Ashtari - a week ago

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5 Star Rating Escadaria Selarón is one of Rio’s most vibrant and artistic landmarks. Although it was quite crowded, we always managed to find the perfect moment for a great photo. We walked up the staircase from the bottom to the top, where street artists added to the lively atmosphere with music, and vendors offered affordable mixed drinks. This stunning staircase is the work of Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, who dedicated years of his life to transforming it into a colorful masterpiece. Covered in thousands of hand-painted tiles from over 60 countries, it has become a symbol of Rio’s creativity and spirit. Another must-visit spot in Rio, perfect for soaking in the local culture and capturing some memorable photos!
MarosH Hudak - 2 months ago

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5 Star Rating We’ve visited Escadaria Selarón multiple times, and it’s usually packed—making it nearly impossible to get a photo without a crowd in the background. But on our most recent visit, it started pouring rain, and within minutes the crowd cleared. For once, we had the entire staircase to ourselves and managed to capture some great shots—umbrellas included! Some of the photos we took even show the steps completely empty in the background, which is rare. What made the moment truly unforgettable was the kindness of a local street vendor. We didn’t have an umbrella, and seeing us soaked, she generously offered hers and told us to keep it. I was genuinely humbled—these vendors work hard, and yet their generosity is overwhelming. That gesture alone said so much about the warmth and character of the people here. This place is a must-see. The level of artistic detail in every tile is incredible, reflecting the passion and talent behind the creation. It’s vibrant, full of character, and a true cultural landmark. While some may say the area feels unsafe, we personally found the local people to be kind and welcoming. It’s a beautiful experience that captures the spirit of Rio and its art-loving community.
Ganesh Shan - a month ago

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5 Star Rating It's a very touristic thing to see but in my opinion it's not that impressive. Only a big stairs, and nothing more. I wanted to walk around in the area and it's not possible (don't feel safe at all). Advice : go up a bit before trying to make pictures, because everyone wants to make picture at the begining of the stairs.
Sylvain Le François - 3 weeks ago

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5 Star Rating Escadaria Selarón is hands down one of the most vibrant and iconic spots I visited during my day tour around Rio de Janeiro! Nestled between the Lapa and Santa Teresa neighborhoods, these colorful steps are a true artistic wonder and an unforgettable experience. Created by the late artist Jorge Selarón, the staircase is covered with thousands of unique tiles from all over the world—each one telling its own story. Walking up the steps felt like flipping through the pages of a global art book. The atmosphere is full of life—musicians playing, travelers snapping photos, and street vendors adding to the charm. What made my visit extra special was enjoying a refreshing local vodka-based drink right there on the steps. Sipping it while taking in the creativity and energy around me was an absolute highlight of my day. The combination of local flavors, vibrant colors, and cultural spirit made for a perfect moment. Escadaria Selarón isn't just a photo-op; it’s a celebration of art, passion, and unity. Whether you're a fan of street art, architecture, or just love soaking in the soul of a city, this place is a must-visit. I left with amazing photos, a happy heart, and the feeling that I had experienced something truly unique in Rio. Highly recommended for anyone exploring the city!
Rahul Parab - 2 weeks ago

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Directions

Metro Line Nearest Station Walking Time
Line 1 - Orange or Line 2 - GreenGloria10 Minutes

How to get to Escadaria Selarón | Selaron Steps by Metro

Exit Gloria Station and walk north along Rua da Gloria which becomes Rua da Lapa. When you get to Rua Teotonio Regadas go left and follow it straight to the Selarón Steps which you should now see at end of the road.

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