Showing 1-8 of 8 results
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Casa de Benjamin Constant
This country estate served as the residence for one of Brazil's most influential politicians in the founding of the young republic. Benjamin Constant (1837-91) was an engineer, military officer and professor before taking an active role in the Provisional Government. He is also remembered for founding a school for blind children. Painstakingly preserved, his house provides a window into his life and times. Lush gardens surrounding his estate provide fine views over Centro and Santa Teresa.
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Fundação Eva Klabin Rapaport
An old mansion full of antiques, the former residence of Eva Klabin Rapaport houses the works of art she collected for 60 years. Reflecting Eva's diverse interests, the collection has 1100 pieces from ancient Egypt, Greece and China. Paintings, sculptures, silver, furniture and carpets are also on display.
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Largo do Guimarães
The square named after Joaquim Fonseca Guimarães (a local resident whose house became Hotel Santa Teresa just up the road) now forms the center of bohemian Santa Teresa. A festive Carnaval street party originates here, and a number of restaurants, handicrafts and thrift shops lie within a short distance of here.
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Paço Imperial
The former imperial palace was originally built in 1743 as a governor's residence. Later it became the home of Dom João and his family when the Portuguese throne transferred the royal seat of power to the colony. In 1888, Princesa Isabel proclaimed the Freedom from Slavery Act from the palace's steps. The building was neglected for many years but has been restored and is used for exhibitions and concerts; its cinema frequently screens foreign and art-house films.
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Parque das Ruínas
Connected to the Museu Chácara do Céu by a walkway, this park contains the ruins of the mansion belonging to Brazilian heiress Laurinda Santos Lobo. Her house was a meeting point for Rio's artists and intellectuals for many years until her death in 1946. Today, the park stages open-air concerts periodically. Don't miss the excellent view from the top floor. There's a small outdoor café that makes a great spot to recharge.
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Parque Guinle & The Palácio Das Laranjeiras
Designed by French landscaper Gochet, the park has a European air, and has a small lake, lanes and lawns. Overlooking the park is the resplendent Palácio da Laranjeiras, built between 1909 and 1914 by architect Silva Telles. Today it is the official residence in Rio of the state governor, and contains the same artwork, furniture and ornamental objects from when the palace was built. You can tour parts of the palace by guided appointments.
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Pista Cláudio Coutinho
Everyone loves this paved 2km trail winding along the southern contour of Morro do Urca. It's a lush treed area, with the waves crashing on the rocks below. Look out for families of capuchin monkeys with their gray fur, striped tails and tiny faces. About 300m along the path, there's a small unmarked trail leading off the path to Morro da Urca. From there you can go up to Pão de Açúcar by cable car, saving a few reais . Pão de Açúcar can also be climbed - but it's not recommended without climbing gear.
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Ponta do Arpoador
This rocky point juts out into the water and serves as one of Rio's best places for watching the sunset. Throughout the day, you'll spot fishermen casting off the rock, couples stealing a few kisses and photographers snapping that iconic stretch of Ipanema beach stretching off toward the towering peaks of Dois Irmãos. You'll also see large flocks of surfers jockeying for position offshore.
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Showing 1-8 of 8 results
