Casa Roberto Marinho: A Cultural Oasis in Cosme Velho

Nestled at the foot of Corcovado Mountain and near Tijuca National Park, Casa Roberto Marinho offers a serene escape into Brazilian art and history. The cultural center resides in the former home of Roberto Marinho, an influential figure in Brazilian media. Built in 1939 by César Melo Cunha, assistant to architect Joseph Gire, the house's neo-colonial architecture was inspired by the Solar de Megaípe, a 17th-century farm in Pernambuco. For over 60 years, the house served as Marinho's residence and a hub for cultural and social events, hosting concerts, plays, and art exhibitions. Today, the Instituto Casa Roberto Marinho displays a collection of over 1,400 pieces, with a focus on Brazilian modernism and informal abstractionism. Works by renowned artists like Tarsila do Amaral, Candido Portinari, and Di Cavalcanti are featured. The surrounding gardens, originally designed by Roberto Burle Marx, provide a tranquil environment with koi ponds and a waterfall. The center also includes a café serving Brazilian treats, a specialized art library, and a cinema. Casa Roberto Marinho hosts temporary exhibitions, lectures, and educational activities, making it a dynamic cultural space for both locals and tourists.