Royal Portuguese Reading Room: A Literary Sanctuary
Discover a breathtaking literary sanctuary in Rio: home to one of the largest collections of Portuguese literature outside of Portugal.
The Royal Portuguese Reading Room in Rio de Janeiro is a stunning library founded in 1837 by Portuguese immigrants. Housing over 350,000 volumes, it boasts a magnificent Neo-Manueline architectural style, making it a cultural treasure and one of the world's most beautiful libraries.
A brief summary to Royal Portuguese Reading Room
- R. Luís de Camões, 30, Rio de Janeiro, Centro, State of Rio de Janeiro, 20051-020, BR
- +55212221-3138
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the weekdays between 10 am and 5 pm to explore the library, as it is open to the public during these hours.
- Take your time to admire the Neo-Manueline architecture, inspired by the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon.
- Explore the surrounding Centro district, which offers other cultural attractions such as the Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil and Candelária Church.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The easiest way to reach the Royal Portuguese Reading Room via public transport is by metro. Take Line 1 (Orange) or Line 2 (Green) to Uruguaiana station. Exit the station onto Rua Uruguaiana, turn right, then turn right again onto Rua do Ouvidor. Follow Rua do Ouvidor to the plaza and continue west along Rua Luís de Camões. The library will be on your right. A single metro ride costs R$7.50.
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Walking
From the Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil (CCBB), walk northeast on Rua Primeiro de Março, then turn left onto Rua do Ouvidor. Continue along Rua do Ouvidor until you reach Rua Luís de Camões. The Royal Portuguese Reading Room will be on your right. The walk is approximately 1.2 kilometers and should take about 15-20 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Rio de Janeiro. Provide the address 'Rua Luís de Camões, 30, Centro' to the driver. A typical short taxi ride in the city center will have a base fare of R$5.6, plus around R$4 per kilometer. Ensure the driver turns on the meter.
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