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Recife City Museum: A Fortified History

Explore Recife's history and culture within the walls of a 17th-century Dutch fort, showcasing the city's social and urban evolution.

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Housed within the historic Forte das Cinco Pontas (Five Points Fort), the Recife City Museum showcases the urban and social history of Recife through a collection of photographs, maps, and artifacts. Originally built by the Dutch in 1630, the fort itself is a significant historical landmark.

A brief summary to Recife City Museum

  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds for a more intimate museum experience.
  • Check the museum's website for information on special exhibitions or events during your visit.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around the Praça das Cinco Pontas to appreciate the historical surroundings.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Pátio de São Pedro, walk southwest along Rua da Praia towards the Praça das Cinco Pontas. The museum is located within the Forte das Cinco Pontas, which is easily visible from the square. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Recife Antigo, take bus line 032 towards Vila Maria. The bus stops near Praça das Cinco Pontas. The ride is approximately 15 minutes, and the fare is around R$4.10. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the museum.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    From Boa Viagem, a taxi or ride-sharing service to the Recife City Museum will take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between R$25 and R$40. Request to be dropped off at Praça das Cinco Pontas, where the fort and museum are located.

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Discover more about Recife City Museum

The Recife City Museum, located in the São José neighborhood, offers a glimpse into the captivating history of Recife. The museum is situated inside the Forte das Cinco Pontas, a star-shaped fort originally constructed by the Dutch during their occupation in 1630. This fort was part of their defense system. After the Portuguese and locals regained control in 1654, the fort was rebuilt, but with only four points instead of the original five. The museum's collection comprises over 150,000 images and artifacts that narrate the city's evolution. Visitors can explore old maps, photographs, and archaeological finds that illustrate Recife's urban development from the 17th century to the present day. The exhibits delve into the social and urban history of Recife, offering insights into the influences that have shaped its unique culture. The Forte das Cinco Pontas, beyond being a museum site, is a historical landmark in its own right. Its architecture and history provide a tangible connection to Recife's colonial past. Wandering through the fort's grounds allows visitors to appreciate the strategic importance of the location and the resilience of the city.

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