Igreja do Senhor do Bonfim is Bahia's most famous church, renowned for its colorful ribbons (fitas) that have become a symbol of Salvador. Built in 1772, the church represents the unique syncretism of Catholicism and African traditions, with Senhor do Bonfim also worshipped as Orixá Oxalá in the Candomblé religion. The ribbons, introduced in 1809, are tied around visitors' wrists with three knots - each knot representing a wish that will come true when the ribbon naturally falls off. The annual Lavagem do Bonfim festival in January sees thousands of women in traditional Bahian dress ceremonially washing the church steps. The Room of Miracles inside contains offerings from those whose prayers were answered. This church is where you truly feel the soul of Bahian culture.