Praça da Fundação: Birthplace of Rio de Janeiro

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Discover the historical heart of Rio de Janeiro at Praça da Fundação, where the city's story began amidst stunning natural beauty.

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Praça da Fundação do Rio de Janeiro

Praça da Fundação do Rio de Janeiro marks the spot where the city was founded in 1565 by Estácio de Sá. Located in the Urca neighborhood, the square offers a tranquil escape with historical significance and views of Sugarloaf Mountain.

A brief summary to Praça da Fundação do Rio de Janeiro

Al. Floriano Peixoto, 378, Rio de Janeiro, Urca, State of Rio de Janeiro, 22291-090, BR
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Monday 8 am-5 pm
Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
Thursday 8 am-5 pm
Friday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

Visit during the cooler months (May to September) for pleasant weather.
Combine your visit with a trip to Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views.
Explore the Fortaleza de São João for a deeper dive into the area's history.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Portão Histórico da Fortaleza de São João

Portão Histórico da Fortaleza de São João: A Gateway to Rio's Past

Fortaleza de São João

Fortaleza de São João: Rio's Historic Guardian

Monumento Natural dos Morros do Pão de Açúcar e da Urca

Monumento Natural dos Morros do Pão de Açúcar e da Urca: A Landmark of Rio

Getting There

Public Transport

From central Rio, take a bus to Urca. Several bus lines serve the Urca neighborhood, including lines 107, 513 and 518. Buses typically cost around R$5. Get off at the UNIRIO - Campus 458 bus stop, which is a short walk from the Praça da Fundação.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Rio de Janeiro. A taxi from Copacabana to Urca will cost approximately R$35-50 and take around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Be sure the taxi meter is running or confirm the fare with the driver beforehand.
Walking

If you are already in Urca or nearby neighborhoods like Copacabana or Botafogo, walking to Praça da Fundação is a pleasant option. From Copacabana, it's approximately a 1.5-hour walk. Enjoy the scenic route along the coast.

Discover more about Praça da Fundação do Rio de Janeiro

Praça da Fundação do Rio de Janeiro, nestled in the Urca neighborhood, marks the very spot where the city of Rio de Janeiro was founded. In 1565, Estácio de Sá arrived with the mission to establish a city and expel invaders, choosing this beautiful beach between Cara de Cão Mountain and Sugarloaf Mountain as the location for the first Portuguese settlement. Today, the square provides a serene escape from the bustling city. Visitors can enjoy lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and peaceful sounds of nature. The square often hosts local events, reflecting the vibrant spirit of Rio de Janeiro. The area is part of the historical site of the Fortaleza de São João. A plaque marks the location where the Portuguese colonization of Rio de Janeiro began. Facing the square is Praia de Fora, the beach where Estácio de Sá first set foot.

Explore the best of what Praça da Fundação do Rio de Janeiro has to offer

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