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Copacabana Fort: A Coastal Fortress with Panoramic Views

Explore a historic fort with stunning views of Copacabana Beach, military history exhibits, and delightful cafes.

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Located at the southern end of Copacabana Beach, Copacabana Fort is a historic military base and museum offering stunning views of the coastline and Sugarloaf Mountain. Built in 1914, the fort played a key role in defending Rio de Janeiro and now houses the Army Historical Museum.

A brief summary to Copacabana Fort

  • Praça Cel. Eugênio Franco, 1, Posto 6, Rio de Janeiro, Copacabana, State of Rio de Janeiro, 22070-020, BR
  • Visit website
  • Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-7 pm
  • Friday 10 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a Sunday to enjoy live music concerts, but check the fort's website for the schedule.
  • Try to get a table outside at one of the cafes for great views of Copacabana Beach; reservations are recommended upon arrival.
  • Explore the original control rooms inside the bunkers to see how the turret guns were managed.
  • Bring cash for the entrance fee, as card payments may not be accepted.
  • Almost all museums in Rio are closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Copacabana Beach, walk towards the southern end of the beach. The fort is located at the far end, past Posto 6. Follow the promenade along the beach until you reach the entrance. The walk from the middle of Copacabana Beach takes approximately 20-30 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Metro Line 1 or 4 to General Osório Station or Cantagalo Station. From General Osório, walk west along Rua Visconde de Pirajá, then turn right onto Rua Bulhões Carvalho until you reach the end. Turn left onto Rua Francisco Otaviano, and the entrance to the fort will be on your right. From Cantagalo, walk towards the beach and follow the coastline to the fort. A single metro fare costs approximately R$7.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Rio de Janeiro. Provide the driver with the address: Praça Cel. Eugênio Franco, 1, Copacabana. A short taxi ride from the center of Copacabana to the fort will typically cost between R$13-R$17.

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Discover more about Copacabana Fort

Fort Copacabana, inaugurated in 1914, stands as a testament to Brazil's military history and offers visitors a unique blend of historical exploration and breathtaking scenery. Situated at the southern tip of Copacabana Beach, the fort was constructed to protect Guanabara Bay and the city of Rio de Janeiro from potential naval attacks. Originally a state-of-the-art coastal defense, the fort boasts thick reinforced concrete walls and housed powerful Krupp cannons, some of which are still on display. The site was also central to the 1922 Tenente Revolt, a significant military uprising in Brazil. In 1986, its military function was concluded, and it was repurposed to honor the Brazilian Army as the Army Historical Museum. Today, visitors can explore the museum's exhibits, which showcase the history and traditions of the Brazilian Army with a collection of over 15,000 pieces. The fort also features two cafes, including a branch of the famous Confeitaria Colombo, where you can enjoy refreshments while taking in the panoramic views of Copacabana and Diabo beaches. Don't miss the opportunity to walk to the end of the fort and witness the 360-degree panoramas from the rock formation where the cannons are located.

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