Sociedade Protetora dos Desvalidos

The bright yellow facade of the Sociedade Protetora dos Desvalidos stands out on the busy cobblestone streets of the Pelourinho neighborhood. Founded in eighteen thirty-two, this organization began as a mutual aid society for enslaved and free Black people in Salvador. Members contributed small amounts of money to a common fund, which provided burial costs and freedom for those still in bondage. It remains one of the oldest organizations of its kind in Brazil, still operating within its original colonial-era building.