Museu do Açude: Art and Nature in Tijuca Forest

Nestled within the lush Tijuca National Park, the Museu do Açude offers a serene escape into art and nature. This unique museum, once a private estate acquired in 1913 and renovated in the 1920s by Raymundo Ottoni de Castro Maya, showcases a diverse collection of art and artifacts. The museum was created in 1964 and has been integrating cultural and natural heritage since the 1990s. The Museu do Açude features a blend of art styles, with three main collections: Oriental Art (sculptures, porcelains), Applied Arts (Brazilian colonial furniture, English silverware), and Azulejaria (Portuguese panels). The museum also has a permanent open-air circuit established in 1999 with contemporary art installations. Artists such as Anna Maria Maiolino, Hélio Oiticica and Lygia Pape are featured. The surrounding gardens complement the museum's collection, offering walking trails and panoramic views. Visitors can explore the museum's four buildings and expansive 151,132 square meter grounds, discovering art installations and enjoying the natural surroundings. The museum provides a tranquil retreat, with its combination of art, history, and natural beauty.