Praça Mauá, Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide

Praça Mauá, situated in the heart of Rio de Janeiro's Centro neighborhood, is a testament to the city's ongoing revitalization efforts. This 25,000 square meter square marks the beginning of Avenida Rio Branco and the Orla Conde, a pedestrian promenade along Guanabara Bay.Originally known as Largo da Prainha, the area was a small beach in the 19th century. In 1910, it was transformed into Praça Mauá, named in honor of Irineu Evangelista de Sousa, the Viscount of Mauá, a prominent Brazilian businessman. The square's central feature is a statue of the Viscount, commemorating his contributions to Brazil's economic development.In the mid-20th century, the construction of the Elevado da Perimetral, an elevated highway, cast a shadow over the square, leading to its decline. However, in 2014, the highway was demolished as part of the Porto Maravilha urban renewal project, restoring the square's connection to the waterfront and paving the way for its resurgence.Today, Praça Mauá is a thriving cultural hub, surrounded by modern landmarks such as the Museu do Amanhã (Museum of Tomorrow) and the Museu de Arte do Rio (MAR). These museums, along with the waterfront views and open space, make it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The square hosts various cultural events and performances throughout the year, adding to its lively atmosphere.