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Museu do Cárcere: Echoes of Incarceration on Ilha Grande

Explore Brazil's penal history at the Museu do Cárcere, located on the stunning Ilha Grande, Angra dos Reis.

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The Museu do Cárcere (Prison Museum) on Ilha Grande documents the history of the Rio de Janeiro state penitentiary system, particularly the Cândido Mendes prison that operated on the island from 1903 to 1994. The museum offers insight into the lives of prisoners and the evolution of Brazil's penal system within the haunting remains of the former prison.

A brief summary to Museu do Cárcere

  • Ilha Grande, Angra dos Reis, Abraão, State of Rio de Janeiro, BR
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • The museum is located in Dois Rios, accessible by a moderate to difficult 16km round-trip hike from Vila do Abraão.
  • Consider taking a boat to Praia do Pouso and then hiking a shorter 1km trail to Lopes Mendes beach.
  • Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat for the hike to Dois Rios.
  • Combine your visit with a relaxing stop at the beautiful Praia de Dois Rios.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Vila do Abraão, the main town on Ilha Grande, follow the well-marked trail (T14) to Dois Rios. The hike is approximately 16 km round trip and is considered moderate to difficult, with some steep ascents and descents. The trail passes through the Atlantic Forest, offering scenic views. Allow 3-4 hours for the hike each way. No costs are associated with this option.

  • Boat and Walking

    Alternatively, take a taxi boat from Vila do Abraão to Praia do Pouso. From Praia do Pouso, a short, 1 km trail leads to Lopes Mendes beach. From Lopes Mendes, you can walk to Dois Rios. Taxi boat fares vary depending on the operator. Expect to pay around R$20 per person, each way. Check with local boat operators in Vila do Abraão for current pricing and schedules.

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Discover more about Museu do Cárcere

Located on the idyllic Ilha Grande, the Museu do Cárcere stands as a stark reminder of the island's complex past. From 1903 to 1994, Ilha Grande was home to the Cândido Mendes prison, which housed a range of criminals, from common offenders to political prisoners during the military regime. The prison was intentionally blown up by order of the state government in 1994. The Museu do Cárcere aims to preserve the memory of the prison system in the State of Rio de Janeiro, especially the penitentiary complex that existed on Ilha Grande. Through exhibits of artifacts, documents, and multimedia presentations, the museum explores the history of incarceration, justice, and the social impact of the prison. The museum is located in Vila Dois Rios, a considerable distance from Vila do Abraão, the island's main village. As part of the Ecomuseu Ilha Grande, the Museu do Cárcere also develops activities to engage with the public, including island residents and Brazilian and international tourists. These activities include heritage education and projects to preserve and promote social memory related to the history of the prison system and the region's culture.

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