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Palácio Cruz e Sousa: A Glimpse into Santa Catarina's History

Explore Santa Catarina's past in Florianópolis's stunning Palácio Cruz e Sousa, now the Historical Museum.

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The Palácio Cruz e Sousa, located in Florianópolis, Brazil, is a historical landmark that once served as the state government palace. Today, it functions as the Santa Catarina Historical Museum, showcasing the state's rich cultural and political history through art, artifacts, and period furnishings.

A brief summary to Palacio Cruz e Sousa

  • Palácio Cruz e Sousa - Praça XV de Novembro, 227, Florianópolis, Centro, State of Santa Catarina, 88010-400, BR
  • +55483665-6363
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit on a Sunday for free admission to the museum.
  • Check for special events or temporary exhibitions to enhance your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be exploring multiple floors of the palace.
  • Take a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the palace's history and exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in Florianópolis's Centro district, walking to the Palácio Cruz e Sousa is straightforward. Head towards Praça XV de Novembro; the palace is located at number 227. Enjoy the local shops and cafes as you approach the square.

  • Public Transport

    From other parts of Florianópolis, take a bus to the Centro terminal (TICEN). From the terminal, walk towards Rua Dom Jaime Câmara and then to Praça XV de Novembro. The Palácio Cruz e Sousa will be easily visible on the square. A single bus fare costs approximately R$4.25 if paying in cash.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    Use a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber to reach the Palácio Cruz e Sousa. Input 'Palácio Cruz e Sousa, Praça XV de Novembro, 227, Centro, Florianópolis' as your destination. A taxi from the airport to the city center costs around R$67. A typical 8km taxi ride in Florianópolis costs approximately R$46.

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Discover more about Palacio Cruz e Sousa

The Palácio Cruz e Sousa, a majestic pink building in Florianópolis's historic city center, invites visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the history of Santa Catarina. Originally built between 1739 and 1749, the palace served as the seat of the state government for many years before being transformed into the Santa Catarina Historical Museum in 1986. The palace's architecture is a blend of baroque, neoclassical, and art nouveau styles, reflecting its evolution over more than 250 years. The exterior is adorned with Corinthian columns and ten allegorical statues crafted by Italian artist Gabriel Silva, representing figures like Saint Catherine, the sea nymph Amphitrite, and the god Mercury. Inside, visitors are greeted by a grand staircase with Carrara marble balustrades, stained-glass windows, and bronze statues of medieval knights. Each room boasts unique inlaid hardwood floors and ceilings with elaborate moldings and crystal chandeliers. The museum's collection comprises 19th- and 20th-century furniture, paintings, documents, medals, photographs, and weapons. It also holds the urn containing the ashes of João da Cruz e Sousa, the Afro-Brazilian symbolist poet for whom the palace is named. The museum hosts cultural events and temporary exhibitions, offering a dynamic perspective on the region's artistic and historical expressions.

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