Casa de Santos Dumont: A Glimpse into an Aviation Pioneer's Life
Explore the unique home of aviation pioneer Alberto Santos Dumont in Petrópolis, showcasing his life, inventions, and architectural ingenuity.
Casa de Santos Dumont, or 'The Enchanted,' is a captivating museum nestled in the heart of Petrópolis, a mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro. This house was designed by Alberto Santos Dumont as his summer residence in 1918. Santos Dumont, a Brazilian aviation pioneer and inventor, is celebrated for his contributions to aeronautics and technology. The house itself is an architectural marvel, reflecting Santos Dumont's innovative spirit. Built on a steep hillside, the three-story villa features unique details such as an external staircase that can only be ascended starting with the right foot and an internal staircase that can only be ascended starting with the left foot. The house also boasts an open layout with no partitions between rooms. One of his inventions was the shower with hot water, the only one of Brazil at that time, being heated with alcohol. Inside the museum, visitors can explore the rooms and admire a collection of Santos Dumont's personal belongings, photographs, documents, and replicas of his inventions. The museum not only celebrates his achievements in aviation but also highlights his contributions to automotive and other technological fields. Notably, the house had no kitchen; Santos Dumont had his meals delivered from the Palace Hotel across the street. After Santos Dumont's death in 1932, his family donated the house to the City Hall of Petrópolis. It was designated a historical landmark in 1952 and converted into a museum in 1956. Today, Casa de Santos Dumont stands as a testament to the life and legacy of a brilliant Brazilian innovator, offering a fascinating journey through his world.
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
- Explore the gardens surrounding the house for relaxation and picturesque photo opportunities.
- Check the museum's schedule for special exhibitions and guided tours to deepen your understanding of Santos Dumont's life and work.
A brief summary to Casa de Santos Dumont
- R. do Encanto, 22, Petrópolis, Centro, State of Rio de Janeiro, 25685-081, BR
- +55242247-5222
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Walking
Casa de Santos Dumont is located in the Centro area of Petrópolis, making it easily accessible on foot from many central hotels and attractions. From Praça da Liberdade, walk east on Rua do Imperador, then turn left onto R. do Encanto. The museum is a short walk from there. Wear comfortable shoes due to the cobblestone streets.
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Public Transport
From the Petrópolis bus terminal, take a local taxi or ride-share to R. do Encanto, 22, Centro. Alternatively, check for local buses heading towards Centro. The bus fare typically ranges between R$ 5-10. A taxi or ride-share is often the quickest option.
