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La Casa Rosada (Spanish for "the Pink House"), officially known as the Casa de Gobierno ("Government House"), is the official seat of the executive branch of the government of Argentina. (When not working at the Casa Rosada, the president resides in a compound in Olivos, Buenos Aires.)
The Casa Rosada was built in the location which, since the foundation of the city of Buenos Aires, the top political institutions of Argentina resided. The current Swedish-style building, however, dates back only to 1873. Constructed in the late 19th century over the foundations of an earlier Customs House, Post Office, and fortress, it stands at the eastern end of the Plaza de Mayo. Its balcony, which faces this large square, has served as a podium by many figures, including Eva Perón, who rallied the descamisados there, and Pope John Paul II, who visited Buenos Aires in 1998. Madonna sang her filmed rendition of the song "Don't Cry for Me, Argentina," for the movie Evita, from this balcony.
The building is painted a light pink colour (and a darker pink colour on the side facing the plaza, after a recent repainting). Dubbed "Casa Rosada" by President Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, it is said that this president chose this colour scheme in order to defuse political tension by fusing the red and white colours of the country's opposing political parties. An alternative explanation points to the fact that the original paint used contained cow blood to prevent damage from humidity.
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San Carlos de Bariloche is a city in the province of Río Negro, Argentina, situated on the foothills of the Andes, surrounded by lakes (Nahuel Huapi, Gutiérrez Lake, Moreno Lake and Mascardi Lake) and mountains (Tronador, Cerro Catedral, Cerro López). It is famous for skiing but also great for sight-seeing, water sports, trekking and climbing. Cerro Catedral is one of the most important ski centers in South America.
The name Bariloche comes from the Mapuche word Vuriloche meaning "people from behind the mountain" (furi = behind, che = people). The Vuriloche pass was used by the Mapuches to cross the Andes and was kept secret from the Europeans priests for a long time.
Nahuel Huapi Lake viewed from Cerro Catedral. Bariloche, Argentina.Settled primarily by Austrians and Germans about 1895, San Carlos de Bariloche has the appearance of an alpine town. Population: (1991) 77,600; (2001) 93,101.
Bariloche was officially founded on 3rd. May, 1902, by a decree of the Executive Branch of the National Government. In 1909 there were 1,250 inhabitants, telegraph, post office, and a road connecting the city with Neuquén. Commerce, however, continued to depend from Chile until the arrival of the railroad in 1934.
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Sugarloaf Mountain Brazil is one of the most enduring Rio de Janeiro images. Forged by Mother Nature some 600 million years ago, this granite and quartz mountain rises high above Brazil's second largest city, adding a considerable highlight to an already spectacular landscape. Rare is the Rio de Janeiro visitor who doesn't have aspirations of venturing up to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain Brazil, and there is good reason for this. The views are simply stunning from the top, and since cable cars are in place to get you there, you won't have to exert much energy if you wish to savor the immaculate sights from on high.
Several mountains provide scenic backdrops to the sprawling expanse that is the city of Rio de Janeiro, and Corcovado Mountain and Sugarloaf Mountain are among the two most famous. If you've ever looked at a picture of Rio de Janeiro, you've likely seen Sugarloaf rising into the sky. Corcovado Mountain is also easy to pick out due to the large Christ the Redeemer statue that caps it. As for Sugarloaf Mountain Brazil, the peak stands at a height of 1,299 feet above sea level, and since it sits on the banks of the sea, the marvel of it all is that much more dynamic. Pao de Acucar is the Brazilian name for the mountain, and if you're wondering about the name in general, it was inspired by the peak's resemblance to a loaf of refined and concentrated sugar. The name was applied by the Portuguese in the 1600s and reflects the fact that sugar cane was the prime export of the period.
The mouth of Guanabara Bay is more accurately where you will find Sugarloaf Mountain. It's easy to find the peak on the horizon from virtually any vantage point in the city, thanks to its lofty heights. You can spot it with ease when enjoying the views that the picture windows at the Museum of Modern Art and the Contemporary Art Museum provide, for example. While gazing at Sugarloaf Mountain from the ground is rewarding enough, it doesn't quite compare with hopping on the Rio Tram and seeing the sights from its summit. The whole city unfolds below, and as you might imagine, the photo opportunities are numerous.
Enjoying Sugarloaf Mountain tram tours is something that any and all Rio de Janeiro visitors will want to add to their list of things to do. You can hop on the Rio Tram in the Urca neighborhood to begin your tram tour, with the first stop being the Morro de Urca. This stopping point is situated at an elevation of 721 feet above sea level and features a restaurant, a café, a snack bar, souvenir shops, and a play area for kids. It's customary to have to spend some time at the Morro de Urca stop before you hop on the Rio Tram that takes you to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain. You can savor the views or take advantage of the facilities while you wait.
Once you get to the summit on the Sugarloaf Mountain tram tours, the views are bound to leave you in awe. After you get over the immaculate shock of it all, you can start picking out the Rio attractions below. Among the things you'll see from the top are the famed strips of sand in Copacabana and Ipanema, the expansive Tijuca Forest, and Corcovado Mountain.
The Sugarloaf Mountain tram tours last about four hours on average. The cable cars leave the base station in Urca every half hour between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m., so you can enjoy a nighttime visit if you please. It is worth noting that taking the Rio Tram isn't the only way to get to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. You can also hike up the mountain on the rear side. The hike up is challenging, especially since some climbing is required, and since you most likely won't want to hike down once you get to the top, buying a Rio Tram ticket for the downward trip in advance is recommended. You won't be able to purchase a ticket for the tram ride down at the summit.
Petropolis Brazil is a town in the state of Rio de Janeiro that is known for its fine summer weather and its imperial history. Founded in 1843 by then Emperor Dom Pedro II, the Imperial City of Brazil, as the town is often labeled, quickly became the preferred summer residence for emperors and aristocrats alike. Wealthy merchants and politicians also found Petropolis Brazil to be an ideal place to escape to during the summer months, and much like the emperors and aristocrats, they erected stately abodes that displayed their wealth and prestige. There is a very prestigious air to the town to this day, and taking in the mansions and the lovely Imperial Palace are main pursuits for tourists.
Petropolis Brazil is set in the Serra dos Orgaos hills about an hour north of Rio de Janeiro. The altitude of the town is approximately 2,500 feet above sea level, and this is a big reason why it's a popular summer destination. The weather is cooler there during the summer months than it is down in Rio de Janeiro, so many Rio natives come seeking relief in the warmer season. A favorable climate isn't the only reason to visit Petropolis Brazil, however. While the relatively hectic environs of Rio aren't far off, the town exhibits a much more relaxed atmosphere. Quaint tree-lined streets invite visitors to explore on foot, and a collection of lovely buildings add to the charming setting. Among the town's main buildings of interest are the Imperial Palace and the Petropolis Cathedral.
The Imperial Palace is easily among the best Petropolis attractions, thanks in part to the fact that it has been converted into an excellent museum. Built between the years of 1845 and 1862, the Museu Imperial, as the palace is now known, was originally the summer residence of Emperor Dom Pedro II. Self-guided tours offer the opportunity to explore numerous rooms, including the bedrooms, and as you might imagine, there are plenty of priceless pieces on display. Among the Museu Imperial's highlights are the jewel-encrusted crown of Pedro II, the elegant baby cribs that feature ivory and bronze accents, and the collection of fine paintings that are spread throughout. You can also see the gold quill that Princess Isabel used to sign the 1888 document that officially ended slavery in Brazil. The Museu Imperial is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, and lines can get long on the weekends and during peak holiday times.
When Petropolis visitors aren't checking out the Museu Imperial, they might wander over to the corner of Tiradentes and Avenida Ipiranga to see the town's cathedral. The Petropolis Cathedral is among Brazil's most famous churches. Inside lie the remains of Emperor Dom Pedro II, his wife Teresa, Princess Isabel, and the Princess's husband. The outside of the Petropolis Cathedral is a dazzling example of the French neo-gothic architectural style. Work started on the attractive edifice in the late 1870s, though the first mass wasn't held there until 1925. Worth noting is the fact that just across the street from the cathedral is the Casa da Princesa Isabel. This mansion also deserves a look, as it served as the main summer home for Princess Isabel. Princess Isabel often found herself ruling the Brazilian empire when her father was abroad.
Other Petropolis attractions that visitors might look to include on the itinerary while in town include the Museu Casa de Santos Dumont and the Casa de Petropolis. The former is a museum that is dedicated to the famous Brazilian aviator and inventor Santos Dumont, while the latter is an opulent old home that has been very well preserved.
Petropolis isn't all about manmade attractions. This resort town is also known for its eco-tourism possibilities, with hiking being among the most popular activities. Guided hiking tours that take to the surrounding hills can be booked in both Petropolis and Rio de Janeiro, and should you want more options, you can also look to add some horseback riding, rock climbing, and rafting to the picture.
There are some wonderful options when it comes to things to do in Petropolis Brazil, and while you can opt to visit the city on a day trip from Rio, staying overnight might be the better option. The Petropolis attractions and the town's options for outdoor activities can easily satisfy a couple of days at least. Some good hotels can be found in town, and there are inviting resorts to choose from in the surrounding countryside. Among the best hotels in Petropolis is the Solar do Imperio. Built in 1875, this restored palace boasts sixteen enticing suites, and you might be interested to know that Princess Isabela called it home for a period.
Paraty is a lovely colonial town that can be found on Brazil's southeastern coast. Just 125 miles away is Rio de Janeiro, while Sao Paulo is approximately 205 miles away. This helps to make Paraty a popular Rio and Sao Paulo side trip destination. As for what people come to see, the town's historic core is the main attraction. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city's old town boasts well-preserved colonial buildings that are a joy to take in. Adding to the allure of a visit are the nearby hills and the area waters. This is an excellent place to play when you're not seeing the manmade sights.
Paraty became a significant Brazilian port in the 1800s, thanks largely in part to the gold that came from the nearby Minas Gerais. The gold that was brought to the coast was destined for Portugal, and when it finally ran out, coffee became the industry of choice in the region. When slavery was abolished in Brazil in 1888, the coffee industry dried up, and this saw Paraty fall into a state of relative insignificance. By the early 1900s, the population had fallen from 16,000 to 600. The city might have completely gone to the wayside if it wasn't for its historic relevance. In 1966, the colonial core was designated a World Heritage Site, and this has helped to make tourism the main industry of the day.
Paraty Brazil is set along Ilha Grande Bay, and rising up behind it are a series of hills that are often cloaked in misty clouds. It's a truly wonderful setting, especially when you also figure in the colonial architecture in the historic core. Among the most attractive Paraty Brazil attractions is the Santa Rita church. This old church dates back to 1722 and stands beautifully against the backdrop of the lush, green hills. Rococo accents add some flare, and should you have the time, you can check out the church's Museum of Sacred Art. This small museum might not be the most renowned art museum in the country, but there are quality works with religious themes that art enthusiasts should enjoy.
Other churches that figure among the top Paraty Brazil attractions include the Ingreja da Matriz, the Ingreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosario e Sao Benedito, and the Capela de Nossa Senhora das Dores. The former is the largest church in town, not to mention the most ornate, and while it started out as a chapel in 1646, the church that you will see today dates back to the 1870s. As for the Ingreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosario e Sao Benedito, it dates back to the 1720s and is especially simple and rustic. The simpler design reflects the fact that it was both built and used by slaves. The Capela de Nossa Senhora das Dores, on the other hand, was finished in 1800 and mostly served the needs of wealthy society women.
Taking in the manmade Paraty Brazil attractions, more specifically the colonial architecture, isn't the only reason that this port city begs a visit. Much like the resort town of Petropolis, Paraty makes a fine eco-tourism destination. In the surrounding hills, hiking figures among the top outdoor pursuits, and multi-day hiking and camping tours are relatively easy to arrange. Renting a mountain bike and venturing off to an area waterfall or beach is also an option for land-based activities, as is horseback riding. Options for water-based activities include boating, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Most of the boat tours that can be arranged at the city center pier last five or six hours and include swimming and snorkeling. Lunch is also included. Local dive operators tend to visit the area islands, where wonderful diving experiences await. A number of fine beaches can be found near Paraty, so you can also add beach time to the agenda.
Regardless of what you have in mind for your trip to Paraty, getting there will be a main thing to think about. Many visitors take a boat from Rio to Paraty Brazil, though that isn't the only option. It is also possible to hop on a bus in either Rio or Sao Paulo, and airport transfers can be arranged through tour operators if you are flying to Brazil and want to head straight to Paraty. Paraty has a small airport, and it is possible to arrive by way of a helicopter or a small plane as well. As for those who prefer taking a boat from Rio to Paraty Brazil, cruise ships and sailboats are most often used to make the transfer. One of the best places to arrange a boat from Rio to Paraty Brazil once you're in town is the Marina da Gloria Yacht Club.
Rio museums can be more than just good rainy day attractions, thanks to their quality. Rio de Janeiro is very much a cultural center, and this is evidenced by its number of museums. The best museums in Rio de Janeiro focus on a range of subjects, so you just might find yourself adding more than one to the itinerary while in town. In addition to the museums, cultural enthusiasts who are traveling to Rio will also have a number of landmarks to choose from. Some of these landmarks are essentially living museums, mostly offering insight into the city's rich history.
As far as art exhibitions go, the best museums in Rio de Janeiro include the Museum of Modern Art and the Contemporary Art Museum. Both of these museums focus on art that was created relatively recently, and their consistently changing exhibits help to keep the museum fresh for repeat visitors. The former can be found in Flamengo Park near the downtown core, while the latter can be found in the nearby city of Niteroi. Both occupy curious buildings that help to make them popular places to visit. The Contemporary Art Museum, for example, looks like a UFO that is set to take off from the Niteroi coast. In addition to showcasing relatively new Brazilian and Latin American art, these Rio museums also play host to traveling exhibits of the international variety.
When art enthusiasts aren't spending some time at these museums during their trip to Rio de Janeiro, they might check out the International Museum of Naive Art or the National Museum of Fine Arts. The former showcases art by self-taught practitioners that is primitive and often very colorful in nature, while the latter highlights both Brazilian and European Art that is mainly from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. A most beautiful building that looks as if it were plucked right out of Paris houses the works at the National Museum of Fine Arts and is alone worth the visit. At the International Museum of Naive Art, the best pieces are arguably those that come from local artists. These pieces tend to deal with the subject of everyday life. You might see a painting depicting a soccer match at the famous Maracana Stadium, for example, or a work that strives to capture the mood at Ipanema Beach.
History buffs aren't left out of the picture when it comes to the best museums in Rio de Janeiro. Both the National History Museum and the Museum of the Republic at the Catete Palace can satisfy hours on end if history is your thing. The National History Museum is found in the busy Center (City Center), and it offers terrific insight into the complete history of Brazil, starting with the arrival of explorers from Portugal. As for the Museum of the Republic at Catete Palace, it focuses mostly on the political history of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil on the whole. The Catete Palace itself is a museum. A lovely baroque palace, it officially housed the country's presidents between the years of 1897 and 1960.
The Rio museums offer something for virtually every interest. Take the Carmen Miranda Museum, for instance. Movie buffs and those who are interested in the entertainment business in general should enjoy the exhibits at the Carmen Miranda Museum. They feature pieces that relate to one of the main international stars from Hollywood's early days. Another interesting museum is the Museum of the Indian, where the many native cultures of Brazil are the focus. After you learn about the country's native inhabitants at the Museum of the Indian, you might check out the genuine handicrafts that are for sale in the onsite shop.
Another cultural center that deserves mention among the best museums in Rio de Janeiro is the National Museum. Part of the city's Federal University, this museum covers a range of interests. The landmark baroque palace that houses the National Museum formerly serves as a home for the royal family, and the majority of the pieces were collected by royal members. A skull from a saber tooth tiger and a large meteorite are just two of the things that are on display at this eclectic museum, and there are plenty of other interesting displays to see. Six main science departments are highlighted at the National Museum, and its worth noting that the surrounding Quinta da Boa Vista area is also home to the city's zoo and a museum that highlights local fauna. The Quinta da Boa Vista area, it should be noted, is the part of Rio that Royal Family called home for most of the 1800s.
Between these Rio museums, cultural enthusiasts should have little trouble filling their time while in town. Add in landmarks such as the Copacabana Fort and the Ilha Fiscal, and the options only increase when it comes to cultural pursuits. Looking outside of the city is also recommended when looking for cultural things to do on a Rio vacation. Two side-trip destinations of choice that are found outside of town are Petropolis and Paraty. The former was the preferred summer vacation destination for royals and rich merchants during the latter half of the 1800s, and it features some excellent museums of its own, including the Imperial Palace Museum. As for Paraty, it is a lovely colonial town whose historic core was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1966.
Maracana Stadium is one of the most well-known soccer venues in the entire world. Built in time to host the World Cup in 1950, this stadium in Rio de Janeiro has seen more than its fair share of big time matches. Unfortunately for Brazil soccer fans, the 1950 World Cup saw the nation's beloved national team lose to then rival Uruguay at the Maracana Stadium. This incident, if you will, is still looked upon with disdain by Brazilians, though the national team would rebound nicely, capturing a handful of World Cups in the following decades.
These days, the Estadio do Maracana, as it is known in Portuguese, still hosts major soccer matches, the bulk of which are played by the main teams in Rio, but those aren't the only events that you can attend. Other Maracana Stadium events include other sports competitions, such as volleyball games, and more than one big ticket performer has put on a big concert there. Past musical Maracana Stadium events include a 1983 concert by KISS, a 1980 performance by Frank Sinatra, and a few concert festivals that featured an array of popular artists, to name a few. In 2014, it is worth noting, the Estadio do Maracana will play host to more World Cup games, as Brazil is the host country, and in 2016, the Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the 2016 Summer Olympics will also put the famous stadium to use.
For the final match of the 1950 World Cup, nearly 200,000 people crammed into the Maracana Stadium to see Brazil take on Uruguay. Interestingly enough, the stadium wasn't yet completed at the time. In fact, it wasn't until 1965 that work on the stadium was finished. Since then, renovations have been made to the Estadio de Maracana, and today, its seats can accommodate just over 82,000 people. The elliptical framework of the stadium is still in place, making the stadium easy to recognize, and once inside, visitors will notice the different colors of the various seating sections.
When Maracana Stadium events aren't going on, it is possible to get a look at the inside of the venue on a tour. English-speaking guides are in place for the tours, and should you be interested in enjoying one, you'll get to explore all the of the floors and the dressing rooms. You'll also get a healthy dose of info on Brazilian soccer, which soccer fans will especially appreciate. The stadium is essentially a living museum, and even if you aren't a major soccer fan, the behind-the-scenes tours should prove rewarding. If nothing else, you can say that you've explored one of the world's main soccer temples. Other major world stadiums that are among the biggest soccer temples include England's Wembley Stadium and Spain's Santiago de Bernabeu Stadium.
When you're not hanging out at a beach, heading up to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, or enjoying any other number of fun pursuits on a Rio de Janeiro vacation, visiting the Estadio do Maracana is an attraction that is worth adding to the itinerary. If you can get tickets to a soccer game, then all the better, though the tours are enjoyable enough as well. The Maracana Stadium is essentially found in the heart of the city center, and since every local knows it well, you won't have trouble getting directions. Many people who are heading to a game or planning on taking a tour of this largest stadium in South America use the metro to get there. The metro station of choice is aptly known as Marcana, with gate 16 being the optimal place to exit.
Ilha Fiscal is a small island off the Rio de Janeiro coast that is best known for its attractive building. The Fiscal Island Palace is a wonderful Gothic Revival structure that looks as if it were designed for a princess. In reality, however, it was built to serve as the headquarters for Brazil's Customs Service. When it was decided in 1881 that Ilha Fiscal would be the location for such a headquarters, work began on a relatively modest customs house. Then Emperor Pedro II was not happy with this plan and declared that a site this ideal should be adorned with a more eloquent edifice. Work on the Fiscal Island Palace was completed in 1889, just in time for a grand ball.
On November 9, 1889, the palatial Customs House on Ilha Fiscal played host to what would be the last Imperial Ball for the Brazilian Empire. Some 5,000 guests attended the event, and they were treated to orchestral performances, fine meals, and plenty of beverages throughout the night. Five days after the ball at the Fiscal Island Palace, the fun came to an end for Emperor Pedro II and the regime of the Constitutional Monarchy. Brazil was on its way to becoming a republic, and the Emperor left the country in exile. This was a very significant time in the history of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil on the whole, and you can learn more about it on tours to Ilha Fiscal.
Today, the lime-green-colored Fiscal Island Palace is both a landmark and a museum. Most of the building's interior is used to house exhibits that relate to the Brazilian navy. The country's navy actually owns the small island that the palace dominates. Tours to Ilha Fiscal are offered by the navy, it is worth noting, and these tours show off an array of sites and artifacts. Four small islands are actually included on the navy tour itinerary and a WWI-era tugboat is used to ferry guests around Guanabara Bay.
The naval tours to Ilha Fiscal that include three other nearby islands last approximately 90 minutes. It is also possible to book a tour that only includes a stop at Ilha Fiscal. These guided tours are available Thursday through Sunday and last approximately two and a half hours. Extra time to view the museum exhibits inside of the Fiscal Island Palace is part of the deal on these longer tours.
Should you plan on enjoying one of the longer tours of Ilha Fiscal, you will either travel by boat or by bus depending on the day. On weekdays, it is customary for tour-goers to take a boat to Ilha Fiscal. On weekends, buses are used for the relatively short trip from mainland Rio de Janeiro. They use a small causeway to get there. As for where to find the tours to Ilha Fiscal, the boats depart from the Espaco Cultural da Marinha. This cultural center on the water can be found in the historic Centro neighborhood near the Praca XV Square. Before you take a tour, you might check out the exhibits at the Espaco Cultural da Marinha. They offer wonderful insight into the maritime history of Brazil. As for taking a bus tour to Ilha Fiscal, the Praca XV Square is the normal starting point.
Ilha Fiscal is one of the most identifiable Rio de Janeiro attractions, and if you like history and architecture, taking a tour of it is recommended while in town. You'll enjoy spectacular views of both the island and the city on the tours to Ilha Fiscal, and it won't be hard to pick out Sugarloaf Mountain rising up in the near distance.
Guanabara Bay is the second-largest bay in Brazil, but that's not what it's mostly known for. On the western shores of this large body of water unfolds the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro. The harbor of Rio de Janeiro is a dazzling sight, as both buildings and granite monolith mountains rise up from the Guanabara Bay. Among the most iconic mountains in the harbor is Sugarloaf Mountain, and you'll also have little trouble recognizing Corcovado with its famous Christ the Redeemer statue. Head to the top of one of these mountains on a clear day, and you can enjoy scintillating views of the bay and the city from on high.
Guanabara Bay was first discovered in 1502. Explorers from Portugal actually mistook the bay for being the mouth of a large river, and as such, Rio de Janeiro got its name. Regardless of what these early explorers thought the bay was, they must have been very impressed by its splendid setting. As for the size of Guanabara Bay, it is seventeen miles wide and nineteen miles long at its maximum. Five municipalities have sprung up around the shores of this idyllic bay, with Rio de Janeiro being the largest. Across from Rio is Niteroi, and thanks in part to the Fortaleza Santa Cruz and the Contemporary Art Museum, this second largest municipality on the bay is worth a visit while in the region.
Wonderful views of Guanabara Bay can be enjoyed from any number of vantage points. From the Niteroi coast, for example, amazing views of the Harbor of Rio de Janeiro help to attract visitors to the eastern shores. The best views of the bay are arguably enjoyed from the summits of Corcovado Mountain and Sugarloaf Mountain, and you can also consider booking a helicopter tour if you want to take it all in from above. Getting out on the water is just one more way to take in the dazzling views, and there are certainly plenty of Guanabara Bay cruises to choose from if you don't have your own boat.
If you want to take a boat tour of Guanabara Bay, you can book a cruise on a boat or a trip out to sea on a yacht. The Gloria Marina is the most popular place to book Guanabara Bay cruises, and depending on which cruise you book, you might even find yourself on a fishing schooner or a WWI-era tugboat. Many of the Guanabara Bay tours include a visit to Ilha Fiscal and a trip over to Niteroi to see the large fort that once guarded the bay. While plying the waters on the Guanabara Bay cruises, you'll get to see all the bay's main sights. These sights include the Rio-Niteroi Bridge, which is more than eight miles long.
Should you be lucky enough to lay eyes on the Harbor of Rio de Janeiro, you won't soon forget how breathtaking it is. In fact, this is most certainly one of the most picturesque harbor in the entire world. While the months of September and October are considered the best times to explore Guanabara Bay and Rio's harbor, there really isn't a bad time to take it all in. The advantages of a September or October visit include low humidity and good weather all around.
Copacabana Fort is one of the top attractions in Rio de Janeiro for those who are interested in military fortifications and architecture. Built in 1914, this massive fort at the southwest end of Copacabana Beach is a joy to explore, and when you're not checking out the cannons and structure, relaxing with a beverage and maybe even a snack at the onsite café is always an option. Wonderful views abound at the Forte de Copacabana, as it is known locally, and this is just one more reason to drop by for a look.
The Copacabana Fort sits on a 28-acre promontory of rock that can be found at the southwest end of Copacabana Beach. This promontory juts out into the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and was chosen because of its proximity to the city's harbor. Thanks in part to the big guns that the fort is largely known for, no record of any engagements at the Forte de Copacana can be found. The guns, as is true of the fort itself, were put in place by Krupp, which is an arms maker that hails from Germany. On Copacabana Fort tours, you can play with the cannons if you please, and you can also head to the bunkers below to check out a stockpile of deactivated shells.
While exploring the inner realms of the Copacabana Fort, another thing that visitors can expect to see is an underground bunker that features latrines, various officers' quarters, and an infirmary. There is also a museum at the fort that offers insight into the role that the country's army played in the history of Brazil prior to the 1960s. In fact, the whole structure is basically a museum. Among the most interesting things at the Forte de Copacabana are the cannons and the structure's thick walls. The cannons include a 305 mm gun and a smaller 190 mm version. Before the guns were decommissioned in 1987, the larger one could reportedly fire its shells fourteen miles out to sea. As for the walls, they are a formidable 39-feet thick.
The Copacabana Fort tours are self guided, and it should take you about an hour and a half to enjoy them if you really want to see the place. When you're not checking out everything inside the fort, take a walk along its turrets. The fort basically separates Copacana Beach from Arpoador Beach, and the views of these beaches are quite amazing. Other things that you can see from the fort's privileged vantage points are Sugarloaf Mountain and the nearby city of Niteroi. Niteroi, it is worth noting, sits directly across from Rio on the Guanabara Bay.
It doesn't cost a lot to enjoy Copacabana Fort tours, and when you're tour is over, the onsite café, or restaurant if you prefer, can make for an excellent place to break for some food and drinks. The views from the café are scintillating, and most agree that the sandwiches, pastries, and cakes that are on offer are of considerable quality. While the Copacabana Fort is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, the café is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. You will have to pay the fort's admission fee to enter the café, but the fee is reasonable.
Corcovado is the main landmark in the beautiful Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro and one of the main attractions. If you've seen any photos of the city, then you've likely seen the Corcovado Statue, or Christ the Redeemer, as it is also known. This 98-foot-tall statue of Christ is visible from virtually every vantage point in the area and is largely responsible for making Corcovado Mountain the landmark that it is. While admiring Corcovado Mountain in Rio from the ground is rewarding enough, taking the cable car up the steep slopes to get a closer look at the statue is recommended. The views of the city from the summit are utterly breathtaking.
The Tijuca Forest is where you will find the Corcovado Mountain in Rio. This forest is a national park and can be found on the western side of the city. It's actually within the city limits and is one of the most popular places to go hiking and sightseeing. Corcovado is the park's main attraction and rises to an elevation of 2,329 feet above sea level. The statue that graces it is an Art Deco-style depiction of Jesus and has been mentioned as a candidate for the New Seven Wonders of the World. It was built to mark the 100-year anniversary of Brazil's independence, which occurred in 1922. Due to funding issues, however, it wasn't fully completed and opened until 1931. At the base of the statue is an observation deck that allows visitors to enjoy the stunning view from Corcovado Mountain. Included in the view are the city, the bay, and the other picturesque mountains that help to make Rio the immaculate destination that it is. Among the mountains is Sugarloaf Mountain, which is the city's other main mountain attraction.
Should you wish to venture up to the summit of Corcovado, there are two options. You can either drive or take a bus up the narrow access road or ride the railway. Taking the train is recommended, even if you might have to wait in line for a few hours. As you climb up Corcovado Mountain in Rio on the train, you'll pass some shacks that are set on the hillside, not to mention scores of trees. Once you get to the top, a refreshment stand and a souvenir stand await. When you're ready to head up to the base of the Corcovado Statue, escalators are in place to help you get there. You can also take an elevator or climb the 223 steps up to the observation deck if you prefer. The train ride up the steep slopes of Corcovado isn't exactly cheap, but thanks to the stunning views, the price is more than reasonable. It's cheaper to take one of the bus tours, but there's a certain charm to taking the railway.
More than 300,000 people visit the Corcovado observation deck on an annual basis, and it's not hard to understand why. In addition to the city, the bay, and Sugarloaf Mountain, some of the things that you can see from the summit include the Maracana Stadium and the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. Sunny days are best if you want to enjoy some time on the observation deck. The view from Corcovado Mountain can be obscured by fog on cloudy days.
The Tijuca Forest, it should be noted, covers more than 8,000 acres. That makes it the world's largest urban forest. Other attractions of interest can be found in the Tijuca Forest, as can a variety of plant and animal species. The attractions include the beautiful Cascatinha Waterfall and the Mayrink Chapel. The latter boasts some interesting murals that were painted by artist Candido Portinari, who is one of the most famous Brazilian painters of all time. Other Candido works, should you be interested, are on display at the Museu Nacional de Belas Artes in Rio de Janeiro and at a collection of museums in Sao Paulo.
The Contemporary Art Museum in Rio de Janeiro isn't only known for its interesting art exhibits. In fact, it might actually be better known for its fascinating building, which looks more like a UFO than a museum at first glance. Completed in 1996, this museum looks almost like a spaceship and was designed by famous Brazilian architect, Oscar Niemeyer, and it certainly exhibits his passion for curves. A landmark structure by all measures, the Niteroi Contemporary Art Museum, as the museum is officially known, deserves a look when in Rio, even if you don't have time to go inside. If you do have time to enter, then all the better, as what you'll find is the best art collection of its kind in all of Brazil and makes a great attraction to visit if you are in Rio.
The Contemporary Art Museum in Rio de Janeiro is located just across the Guanabara Bay in Niteroi. Thanks in large part to its unique design, this museum has brought a lot of attention to its home city. While circular buildings aren't exactly ideal for displaying art, the curators at the Niteroi Contemporary Art Museum do a good job setting up the various exhibits. Some of the exhibits are permanent, though most are rotated or changed out often. The various exhibits are situated on three different levels, and the museum also features a subterranean floor with various archives, a screening room, and a mix of other technical and administrative facilities.
The art that is on display at any given time at the Niteroi Contemporary Art Museum is mostly abstract in nature. Sculptures figure among the main pieces, as do paintings, and visitors can also inspect some curious textile works. Since the bulk of the exhibits are changed over time, you never know what you might see on a visit. When you're not checking out the art, you can check out the amazing views that the museum's many picture windows provide. There is a lot to take in at the museum, including windows featuring great views of Niteroi, the bay, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the sprawling expanse of Rio, creating an extra bonus to taking in this museum.
A fascinating building, some interesting art, and some spectacular views are what a trip to the Contemporary Art Museum in Rio de Janeiro are all about. The museum overlooks Niteroi's main beach from its promontory perch, so you might pair some beach time with your visit when looking for things to do. Restaurants and shops are also close by, so it's easy to make a day of it when heading over to Niteroi to explore the landmark museum. It only takes about an hour to see the museum's collection, so you should have lots of time to enjoy the city's other attractions before heading back to your Rio hotel. Of course, you can always consider staying for a night or more at one of the Niteroi hotels.
Palacio do Catete (which contains the Museu da Republica or Museum of the Republic) formerly served as the home of the Brazilian executive branch, though today its role is that of a museum. Found in the Catete District near Flamengo Park, the Museu da Republica offers three floors of exhibits that relate to Brazil's history, with specific attention being placed on the political side of things. Various antiques and priceless works of art are among the museum pieces that are on display inside the restored Catete Palace, and the building itself is worth the visit alone. It's not hard to understand why Brazilian Presidents chose to set up office at the palace between the years of 1897 and 1960 once you lay eyes on the beautiful structure.
On a visit to the Palacio do Catete, you will have the chance to wander through various rooms and chambers, all of which look as they might have during the edifice's administrative days. Among the highlights is the formal ballroom with its large, leather-covered table. This room was where the cabinet used to meet on a regular basis. Another highlight at the Museu da Republica is the exhibit that covers the life of past President Getulio Vargas. This former leader actually committed suicide in the Catete Palace in 1954. The nightshirt that President Vargas was wearing when he fired the fatal shot is on display at the museum, as is the .32-caliber gun that he used. Guided tours in English can be arranged for those who want to get more insight into this and the other various exhibits at the Palacio do Catete, so you might keep that in mind when planning your visit.
The Catete Palace can be an excellent place to spend an hour or more, especially if you are interested in the fascinating political history of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil on the whole. When you're not enjoying the main exhibits during your visit, you might give the Folklore Museum a look or take a stroll in the lovely gardens. The branch of the Folklore Museum that can be found at the Catete Palace features folk art from Brazil and doesn't cost anything to enjoy. Having a meal at the popular onsite restaurant or taking a break at the onsite café are just two more ways to spend your time on a visit to the Museu da Republica, so you might find yourself lingering longer than expected.
The Palacio do Catete is open to the public from noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and from 2 until 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. While the rates are low, those who are planning budget-minded Rio de Janeiro vacations might opt to drop by on Wednesday or Sunday, as these are free days. As far as getting to the museum is concerned, you can get there in minutes from the center of town (Centro) or from Copacabana if you take the metro. The metro stop of choice is Catete.
