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

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.