at a glance

in 2005, rio de janeiro declared the staircase a national monument, and it played a role in rio winning the bid for the 2016 olympic games. the steps were also featured in the american television show 'the amazing race' - where the teams were tasked to find a certain tile. in the same year, selarón was titled an honorary citizen of rio de janeiro.   

according to his own recounts, selarón traveled 17 years, across 57 countries of europe, asia, and south america, until he finally chose rio as his home in 1983. the artist, jorge selarón was unfortunately found dead january 10, 2013, on his iconic creation.  although the cause of death was clear, the facts behind his death remain a mystery.  

today selarón's work is considered an important landmark in rio de janeiro, partially credited for bringing attention to the public spaces in lapa, and even incentivizing the local gentrification process. the spontaneity and effervescence of this work of art can be felt by anyone walking up this unique staircase. the escadaria is easily reachable via a short walk from lapa's arches.  the mosaico selarón can be seen on this wikimapia, and on this google map.