Rio de Janeiro museums are a must-see for any art lover visiting the city. From world-renowned institutions to lesser-known gems, these museums offer a diverse range of art and artifacts for visitors to explore. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the most popular museums in Rio de Janeiro, providing as much information as possible about each of them.
1. Museu de Arte do Rio (MAR)
The Museu de Arte do Rio (MAR) is a modern and contemporary art museum located in the heart of the city. It boasts a vast collection of Brazilian and international art, including works by renowned artists such as Tarsila do Amaral, Candido Portinari, and Willem de Kooning. The museum also regularly hosts special exhibitions, showcasing the works of both established and emerging artists.
Exhibitions:
The museum’s permanent collection includes over 8,000 works of art, with a focus on Brazilian art from the 19th century to the present day. It also regularly organizes temporary exhibitions, which are often dedicated to a specific theme or artist.
History and background:
The MAR was founded in 2013 and is housed in the historical Paço Imperial, a 18th-century building that was once the residence of the Portuguese royal family. The museum’s mission is to promote and preserve Brazilian art and culture, and it has quickly established itself as one of the most important art institutions in the country.
Guided tours:
The MAR offers guided tours in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. The tours are led by experienced guides who provide insight into the museum’s collection and exhibitions, as well as the history of the Paço Imperial.
2. Museu Nacional de Belas Artes
The Museu Nacional de Belas Artes (MNBA) is the oldest fine arts museum in Brazil and it is considered one of the most important cultural institutions in the country. It has a vast collection of Brazilian and European art, including works by renowned artists such as Pedro Américo, Eliseu Visconti, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir.
Exhibitions:
The MNBA’s permanent collection includes over 20,000 works of art, with a focus on Brazilian art from the 18th century to the present day. It also regularly organizes temporary exhibitions, which are often dedicated to a specific theme or artist.
History and background:
The MNBA was founded in 1937 and is housed in a beautiful Beaux-Arts building in the city center. The museum’s mission is to promote and preserve Brazilian and European art and culture, and it has a rich history of displaying some of the most important artworks of Brazilian art.
Guided tours:
The MNBA offers guided tours in Portuguese and English. The tours are led by experienced guides who provide insight into the museum’s collection and exhibitions, as well as the history of the building.
3. Museu de Arte Contemporânea
The Museu de Arte Contemporânea (MAC) is a modern and contemporary art museum located in the neighborhood of Niterói, across the bay from Rio de Janeiro. It boasts a collection of Brazilian and international art, including works by renowned artists such as Hélio Oiticica, Lygia Clark, and Lygia Pape. The museum also regularly hosts special exhibitions, showcasing the works of both established and emerging artists.
Exhibitions:
The MAC’s permanent collection includes over 4,000 works of art, with a focus on Brazilian contemporary art from the 1950s to the present day. It also regularly organizes temporary exhibitions, which are often dedicated to a specific theme or artist.
History and background:
The MAC was founded in 1996 and is housed in a striking modernist building designed by the famous Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. The museum’s mission is to promote and preserve Brazilian contemporary art and culture, and it has played a vital role in showcasing the works of some of the most important Brazilian artists of the 20th century.
Guided tours:
The MAC offers guided tours in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. The tours are led by experienced guides who provide insight into the museum’s collection and exhibitions, as well as the history of the building and the architect Oscar Niemeyer.
In conclusion, Rio de Janeiro museums offer an incredible opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the city and the country. From modern and contemporary art to fine arts, these museums have something for everyone. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning art lover, a visit to one or more of these museums is a must-do on your trip to Rio de Janeiro.
