Background

Pernambuco State Museum: A Journey Through Pernambucan History

4.7 (2332)

Discover Pernambuco's rich history and culture through art and artifacts at this captivating museum housed in a beautiful 19th-century mansion.

Housed in a stunning 19th-century mansion in Recife, the Pernambuco State Museum (MEPE) offers visitors a captivating journey through the region's rich history and culture. With over 12,000 art pieces, the museum showcases everything from colonial Brazil and the Dutch invasion to Afro-Brazilian and Indigenous cultures.

A brief summary to Pernambuco State Museum

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

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the exhibits.
  • Take your time exploring the gardens surrounding the mansion; they offer a tranquil escape and photo opportunities.
  • Check the museum's schedule for temporary exhibitions or special events showcasing contemporary Pernambucan art.
  • While there is parking available, it may be limited. Consider using a ride-sharing service or taxi for convenient access.
widget icon

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Attraction

Praça do Derby, 7 - Derby

Praça do Derby: A Historical and Verdant Oasis in Recife
Attraction

Praça Maciel Pinheiro

Praça Maciel Pinheiro: A Historic Oasis in Recife
Attraction

Museu do Homem do Nordeste

Museu do Homem do Nordeste: A Cultural Journey Through Northeastern Brazil

Unlock the Best of Pernambuco State Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Recife Antigo, take bus line 1909 (TI Pelópidas / TI Joana Bezerra) or 2437 (Curado II (circular)) and disembark near the Museu do Estado de Pernambuco. The bus fare is approximately R$4.10. From the Boa Viagem area, take the Metro to the Joana Bezerra Integrated Terminal (Terminal Integrado Joana Bezerra), then take a connecting bus to the museum. The metro fare is R$4.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Recife. A taxi ride from Recife Antigo to the museum typically costs between R$12 and R$21, depending on traffic. Ensure the driver resets the meter at the beginning of the ride. Ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Cabify also operate in Recife, offering a potentially cheaper alternative.

  • Walking

    From Jaqueira Park, the museum is a short walk. Exit the park and head west on Avenida Rui Barbosa. The museum will be on your right. There is no cost associated with walking.

Discover more about Pernambuco State Museum

The Pernambuco State Museum (Museu do Estado de Pernambuco or MEPE) is located in the Graças neighborhood of Recife, Brazil. It resides within a beautiful two-story mansion that once belonged to Dr. Augusto Frederico de Oliveira, grandson of the Baron of Beberibe. The museum was established in 1928, opening its doors in 1929, and has since become a vital cultural institution in Pernambuco. The museum's extensive collection features more than 12,000 works of art that illustrate the history of Pernambuco. Visitors can explore exhibits dedicated to the Brazilian Colonial Period, the Dutch invasion (1630-1654), Afro-Brazilian culture, and Indigenous traditions. The collection includes paintings, furniture, sacred art, porcelain, crystals, and other artifacts. The museum also hosts the Salão de Arte Contemporânea de Pernambuco, showcasing emerging local artists. Outside, the mansion is surrounded by gardens with acacias, mango trees and statues of priestesses. Two bronze griffins guard the entrance. Statues of Greek muses line the front terrace.

Explore the best of what Pernambuco State Museum has to offer

Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



More about Recife

File:Boa Viagem (2) - Recife - Pernambuco, Brasil.jpg - Wikipedia

Discover Recife: A city where historic charm meets vibrant culture and stunning beaches, offering a unique blend of modernity and tradition in the heart of Brazil.

Tell me more about Recife
Attraction

Explore Rua do Bom Jesus in Recife: a historic street with colorful colonial buildings, vibrant art, and rich cultural heritage.

Rua do Bom Jesus
Attraction

Discover Praça do Derby in Recife: a historic square blending urban transit with tranquil gardens and cultural landmarks.

Praça do Derby, 7 - Derby

Select Currency