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Museu da Chácara do Céu: A Bohemian Art Haven

Discover art and panoramic views at Museu da Chácara do Céu in Rio's bohemian Santa Teresa neighborhood.

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Nestled in the Santa Teresa neighborhood, the Museu da Chácara do Céu is an art museum housed in the former residence of art collector Raymundo Ottoni de Castro Maya. The museum boasts diverse art collections, rare books, and decorative arts, all within a stunning house offering panoramic city views.

A brief summary to Museu da Chácara do Céu

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Explore the surrounding Santa Teresa neighborhood, known for its art galleries, restaurants, and historic architecture.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Parque das Ruínas, a nearby cultural center with stunning city views.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the heart of Santa Teresa, the Museu da Chácara do Céu is easily accessible on foot. Navigate the charming, winding streets, keeping an eye out for the museum signs. The walk offers a chance to soak in the neighborhood's bohemian atmosphere and admire its unique architecture. Be prepared for some uphill walking, as the museum is perched on a hill offering stunning views.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Museu da Chácara do Céu via public transport, take the Santa Teresa Tram (Bonde de Santa Teresa) from the city center. The tram departs near Carioca Station and provides a scenic route through the neighborhood. Alternatively, several bus lines serve Santa Teresa. From the city center, take a bus towards Santa Teresa and alight at a stop close to Rua Murtinho Nobre. From there, it's a short walk to the museum. Bus fares are around R$4.70.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Rio de Janeiro and offer a convenient way to reach the Museu da Chácara do Céu. From the city center or other popular tourist areas, a taxi ride to the museum typically costs between R$20 and R$30, depending on traffic and distance. Note that fares might be higher during peak hours and on weekends. There are taxi stands, and flagging a taxi down on the street is also common.

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Discover more about Museu da Chácara do Céu

The Museu da Chácara do Céu, located in the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa in Rio de Janeiro, is more than just a museum; it's an immersive experience blending art, history, and breathtaking scenery. The museum occupies the former residence of Raymundo Ottoni de Castro Maya (1894-1968), a prominent art collector and patron who bequeathed his home and collection to the public. Known since 1876 as Chácara do Céu, Castro Maya inherited the house in 1936. In 1954, the original construction was demolished, and architect Wladimir Alves de Souza designed the modern residence that stands today. The building's design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding gardens, offering panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro and Guanabara Bay. Roberto Burle Marx designed the external gardens. The house has three floors. The museum's collection comprises over 22,000 items, showcasing a rich array of Brazilian art from indigenous works to modernism, European and Oriental art, furniture, decorative arts, and rare books. Highlights include works by Candido Portinari, Di Cavalcanti and Lygia Clark, as well as pieces by Modigliani, Joan Miró, and Jean-Baptiste Debret. Two rooms, the library and dining room, are preserved with their original furnishings, offering a glimpse into Castro Maya's life. In 1963, Castro Maya established a foundation to manage his estate. The Museu da Chácara do Céu was officially created in 1972. In 1983, the foundation was dissolved, and the museum became part of the Instituto do Patrimônio Histórico e Artístico Nacional (IPHAN). Today, it is one of the Museus Castro Maya, along with the Museu do Açude.

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