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Casa França-Brasil: A Neoclassical Gem in Rio

Explore art and history at Casa França-Brasil, a neoclassical landmark in Rio de Janeiro's cultural heart.

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Casa França-Brasil, located in Rio de Janeiro's Centro, is a neoclassical building dating back to 1820. Originally designed as a commercial center, it has served various purposes throughout its history and now functions as a cultural center hosting exhibitions and events.

A brief summary to Casa França-Brasil

  • 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

Local tips

  • Check the Casa França-Brasil website for current exhibitions and events before your visit.
  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions in Centro, such as the Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil and Praça XV.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Casa França-Brasil is located in Centro, Rio de Janeiro, near Praça XV de Novembro and the Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil. From Praça XV, walk east along Rua Visconde de Itaboraí. Casa França-Brasil will be on your right.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest Metro stations are Carioca and Uruguaiana. From Carioca station, walk east along Avenida Presidente Vargas, then turn right onto Rua Visconde de Itaboraí. From Uruguaiana station, walk east along Rua Uruguaiana, then turn left onto Rua Visconde de Itaboraí. The VLT (light rail) also stops nearby at the 'Praça XV' station. A single metro or VLT ticket costs around R$4.65 - R$7.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Rio de Janeiro. A short taxi ride from Copacabana or Ipanema to Casa França-Brasil will cost approximately R$30-R$50, depending on traffic. Uber may be slightly cheaper. The base fare for taxis is around R$5.50, plus R$2.50 per kilometer.

Unlock the Best of Casa França-Brasil

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Discover more about Casa França-Brasil

Casa França-Brasil, an iconic cultural center in Rio de Janeiro, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage. Designed by Grandjean de Montigny, a member of the French Artistic Mission, the building was commissioned in 1819 by King John VI of Portugal and Brazil. It was inaugurated on May 13, 1820, as the first Commerce Square in Rio de Janeiro. The building's neoclassical style marked a shift from the colonial houses that characterized Rio at the time, introducing a more cosmopolitan, European tone. Over the years, Casa França-Brasil has served as a customs house, a warehouse, and even a courthouse. In 1938, it was recognized as a national cultural treasure by the National Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN). After a period of deterioration, the building was restored in the 1980s, transforming it into a cultural center. It was reopened as Casa França-Brasil on March 29, 1990. Today, it hosts a variety of exhibitions, performances, and musical presentations, with a focus on contemporary art and culture. The Casa also features a cinema and video room, a multimedia section, a library, a boutique, and a bistro. Visitors can explore the building's architecture, including its solid walls, columns, and skylights. The main hall, with its columns, ornamented arches and stone floor, hosts major exhibitions and can be used for private events. The Sala de Leitura (Reading Room) offers a collection of contemporary art books.

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