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

Discover Santa Catarina's history and culture at the Palácio Cruz e Sousa, a stunning architectural landmark in Florianópolis's main square.

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The Palácio Cruz e Sousa, located in Florianópolis, Brazil, is a historical landmark that serves as the home of the Santa Catarina Historical Museum. Originally built in the mid-18th century to house government services, the palace has evolved through several architectural styles, including baroque, neoclassical, and art nouveau. Today, it stands as a museum showcasing the state's rich cultural heritage.

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
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a Sunday for free admission to the Historical Museum of Santa Catarina.
  • Check out the rooms upstairs to see the preserved wood floors.
  • Explore the surrounding Praça XV de Novembro, including the iconic Figueira Centenária (old fig tree) and other historical buildings.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Palácio Cruz e Sousa is located in the heart of Florianópolis on Praça XV de Novembro, making it easily accessible on foot from most downtown locations. From the Mercado Público, walk west along Avenida Paulo Fontes, then turn left onto Rua Deodoro. The palace will be on your right, facing the square. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Florianópolis has a well-developed bus network. Several bus lines connect to the Centro Integration Terminal (TICEN). From TICEN, the Palácio Cruz e Sousa is a short walk. Exit the terminal and cross Avenida Paulo Fontes, then turn left onto Rua Deodoro. The palace will be on your right, facing the Praça XV de Novembro. A single bus fare costs R$4.25 if paying in cash.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Florianópolis. A short taxi ride from the main bus terminal (TICEN) or Beiramar Shopping to the Palácio Cruz e Sousa typically costs between R$15 and R$25, depending on traffic and surge pricing.

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Discover more about Palacio Cruz e Sousa

The Palácio Cruz e Sousa, also known as the Palácio Rosado (Pink Palace), is a significant historical building in Florianópolis, the capital of Santa Catarina, Brazil. Situated on Praça XV de Novembro, the city's main square, the palace has been home to the Santa Catarina Historical Museum since 1986. Construction of the palace began in the mid-18th century (circa 1739-1749) when Brigadier José da Silva Paes, the first governor of the Captaincy of Santa Catarina, commissioned it as the new Government House. Over the centuries, the palace underwent several modifications, with a major renovation between 1894 and 1898 giving it the eclectic architectural style it retains today. The palace exterior is adorned with ten allegorical statues crafted by Italian artist Gabriel Silva. These include the patron saint of Santa Catarina, Saint Catherine, the sea nymph Amphitrite, and the god Mercury. Inside, visitors are greeted by a Carrara marble staircase, bronze statues of medieval knights, and an Art Nouveau stained-glass window. The museum's collection features furniture, paintings, documents, and other items from the 19th and 20th centuries. One of its notable holdings is an urn containing the ashes of João da Cruz e Sousa, the Symbolist poet for whom the palace is named. The inlaid hardwood floors, each with a unique pattern, and the restored decorative paintings and stucco ceilings also contribute to the palace's ambiance. The palace has served many purposes throughout its history. It has hosted emperors, been the site of political turmoil during the Federalist Revolution, and served as the governor's residence. In 1979, the building was officially named Palácio Cruz e Sousa in honor of the local poet. The palace was listed as a historic patrimony of Santa Catarina in 1984 and has undergone several restoration projects to preserve its architectural features.

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