city, northeastern Bahia estado (state), northeastern Brazil. It lies on the São Francisco River at the site of the Paulo Afonso Falls, where an important hydroelectric facility is located. Made the seat of a municipality in 1958, Paulo Afonso is the transportation and commercial centre for its agricultural hinterland. It is accessible by highway from Salvador, the state capital, about 310 miles (500 km) south, and from neighbouring communities in Bahia, Alagoas, and Pernambuco states. The city is served by an airport. Pop. (2005 est.) 82,514.