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 Escadaria Selarón is one of Rio de Janeiro’s most colorful and lively attractions. The famous staircase is covered with beautiful tiles from all over the world, making every step unique. It was fun walking around, taking photos and admiring the amazing artwork. The area was very busy with visitors, street performers and small stalls selling souvenirs, T-shirts and postcards. It had a lively atmosphere and was a great place to experience the local culture. Allow some time to explore the nearby streets as well. If you’re visiting Rio, this is definitely a must-see landmark and a perfect place for memorable photos.
Virginia Lio - 2 months ago

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5 Star Rating The Selarón Steps are one of those places that feel alive the moment you arrive. Tucked between the neighbourhoods of Lapa and Santa Teresa in Rio de Janeiro, the staircase is a celebration of colour, creativity, and community. Every step is covered in tiles from all over the world, creating a mosaic that feels both chaotic and beautifully intentional. Blues, reds, yellows, and greens compete for attention, and no matter where you look, there is always another detail to notice. When I visited, the sky was heavy and the rain fell steadily, coating the tiles in a glossy sheen. Although the weather could have dampened the experience, it actually added a different kind of charm. The colours looked even brighter against the grey day, and the sound of rain tapping on ceramic made the space feel calm and intimate. Tourists still laughed, took photos, and carefully climbed the steps, sharing umbrellas and smiles. What makes the Selarón Steps special is not just their appearance, but the story behind them. They are a labour of love, created by artist Jorge Selarón as a gift to the city. That passion is still visible in every tile and every curve. Despite the rain, the day was genuinely fun. Exploring the steps, chatting with other visitors, and soaking in the atmosphere made it unforgettable. The Selarón Steps are more than a photo spot; they are an experience worth having, rain or shine. It stands as a vibrant reminder that art, weather, and people together can transform an ordinary walk into joy for everyone present.
Fada Banxx - 5 months ago

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5 Star Rating This was a great experience and the vibes were on point here. The amazing layout of all the tiles is magical and makes for a next level work of art blended into the culture of Rio. People were pretty considerate of others taking photos. I recommend walking to the top to avoid large crowds which makes for better photos opportunities. There was music for the vendors and live music playing as well. Overall an incredible experience. A must see when in Rio. Tourist tip: YOU DO NOT NEED TICKETS FOR THESE STAIRS OR A TOUR! It’s safe, just watch your pockets and purses as usual because it’s crowded.
Da'Love Woods - 4 months ago

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5 Star Rating Very interesting and touristy area. Multiple stairs covered by very colourful ceramics from around 60 countries. Very nice and lively piece of street art. Also very crowded with the tourists
Alain Tremblay - 2 months ago

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5 Star Rating Very busy with tourists all trying to get that perfect photo in the middle of a crowd. There was a queue at the bottom of people waiting to take a photo. Nice place plenty of souvenir stands and caipirinha stalls.
Ceri Ceejay - 2 months 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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