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Casa da Cultura de Pernambuco: A Cultural Crossroads in a Former Prison

Explore Pernambuco's vibrant culture, history, and handicrafts in a unique setting: a repurposed 19th-century prison turned cultural center.

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The Casa da Cultura de Pernambuco, located in Recife, is a vibrant cultural center housed in a repurposed 19th-century prison. Transformed in 1976, it now hosts over 150 shops offering handicrafts, regional products, and cultural events, making it a must-see destination for tourists.

A brief summary to Casa da Cultura de Pernambuco

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid the largest crowds and have a more relaxed shopping experience.
  • Explore all three floors to discover the full range of handicrafts and cultural items available.
  • Don't miss the preserved prison cell to get a sense of the building's history.
  • Check the Casa da Cultura's schedule for cultural performances, workshops, and events.
  • Bargain respectfully with vendors for the best prices on handicrafts and souvenirs.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Casa da Cultura is easily accessible by public transport. From the Recife Metro, take the subway to Estação Casa Da Cultura. Upon exiting the station, the Casa da Cultura is a short walk away. Bus lines also serve the area. A single bus or metro fare costs around R$4.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Recife. A short taxi ride from Boa Viagem or Recife Antigo to the Casa da Cultura typically costs between R$15 and R$25, depending on traffic and distance. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or check the app estimate before starting your trip.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Santo Antônio neighborhood or Recife Antigo, walking to the Casa da Cultura is a pleasant option. From Marco Zero, walk along the Rio Capibaribe. The Casa da Cultura will be on your left, a large, cross-shaped building. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes.

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Discover more about Casa da Cultura de Pernambuco

The Casa da Cultura de Pernambuco, situated in the heart of Recife, is a unique blend of history, culture, and commerce. Originally constructed in 1850 as the Recife House of Detention, the building served as one of Brazil's largest prisons throughout the 19th century. Designed in a cross-shaped, panoptic style by engineer José Mamede Alves Ferreira, the prison allowed for centralized surveillance of its inmates. After 118 years of operation, the prison was closed in 1973 due to overcrowding. In 1976, it was reborn as the Casa da Cultura, thanks to the vision of artist Francisco Brennand, with renovations led by architect Lina Bo Bardi. The former prison cells were converted into shops, creating a bustling marketplace where artisans from across the state could showcase their work. Today, the Casa da Cultura is a hub of Pernambuco's cultural scene. Visitors can explore a wide array of handicrafts, from ceramics and textiles to woodwork and leather goods. The complex also features a bookstore specializing in Pernambuco authors, a Frevo Museum, and spaces for theater, music, and dance performances. One cell has been preserved to show visitors what the prison looked like. With its rich history and diverse offerings, the Casa da Cultura provides an immersive experience into the heritage of Pernambuco.

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