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Arcos da Lapa: A Symbol of Rio's History

An iconic 18th-century aqueduct in Rio's Lapa district, now a vibrant hub for nightlife and home to the Santa Teresa tram.

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The Arcos da Lapa, also known as the Carioca Aqueduct, is an iconic landmark in Rio de Janeiro's Lapa neighborhood. Built in the 18th century to supply fresh water to the city, it now serves as a historic monument and a stunning backdrop for Lapa's vibrant nightlife.

A brief summary to Arcos da Lapa | Aqueduto da Carioca

  • Rio de Janeiro, Lapa, State of Rio de Janeiro, 20031-040, BR

Local tips

  • Visit the Arcos da Lapa at night to see them beautifully illuminated.
  • Take a ride on the Santa Teresa tram for a unique perspective of the arches and surrounding area.
  • Explore the nearby Selarón Steps, a colorful mosaic staircase created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, as the area can get crowded.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Cinelândia Metro Station (Lines 1 and 2), walk northeast on Avenida República do Chile, then turn left onto Rua Evaristo da Veiga. Continue onto Rua da Lapa. The Arcos da Lapa will be on your right. The metro ride costs R$7.50. Alternatively, numerous buses serve the Lapa area. Bus fares are around R$4.70.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available throughout Rio de Janeiro. A taxi ride from Copacabana to Arcos da Lapa typically costs between R$30 and R$40, depending on traffic. Be sure the driver turns on the meter, which has a base fare of R$5.6, plus R$4 per kilometer. Ride-sharing apps will provide a fare estimate before you book.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Centro area, walking to Arcos da Lapa is a viable option. From Largo da Carioca, walk along Rua da Carioca, then turn onto Avenida Mem de Sá. The Arcos da Lapa will be on your left. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.

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Discover more about Arcos da Lapa | Aqueduto da Carioca

The Arcos da Lapa, or Lapa Arches, stand as a proud reminder of Rio de Janeiro's colonial past and a symbol of the city's vibrant present. Constructed in the mid-18th century (between 1723 and 1744), the aqueduct was designed to carry water from the Carioca River to the growing population in downtown Rio. This impressive structure, reminiscent of Roman architecture, features 42 arches reaching a height of 64 meters. With the development of modern plumbing, the aqueduct was repurposed in the late 19th century as a viaduct for the Santa Teresa tram. This charming yellow tram, or 'bonde,' still runs today, offering a scenic ride over the arches and into the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa. The Arcos da Lapa anchors the Lapa neighborhood, known for its bustling nightlife, samba clubs, and historic architecture. The area around the arches is a popular gathering spot, with street vendors, food stalls, and live music adding to the lively atmosphere. Today, the Arcos da Lapa is a must-see for any visitor to Rio de Janeiro. It represents not only a feat of engineering from the past but also a focal point for experiencing the city's unique culture and energy. The arches are particularly stunning when illuminated at night, creating a magical ambiance.

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