The Royal Portuguese Reading Room in Rio De Janeiro: A Complete Guide
WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ROYAL PORTUGUESE READING ROOM
You’re in the right place, as this article is about the Royal Portuguese Reading Room in Rio de Janeiro.
🇧🇷 Living in Rio since 2016, this iconic reading room is one of my favorite spots to visit when I need to disconnect and relax.
And for good reason. Did you know that TIME magazine named this library as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world? It is a hidden treasure in the city center and an absolute must-visit.
The plain exterior masks the breathtakingly beautiful inside with its lavish decorations and historical settings. But what is the story behind this incredible spot?
This is what this article is all about. Ready to learn everything about all about the Portuguese Reading Room (also known as Real Gabinete Portugues Da Leitura)? Let’s go.
The History of the Royal Portuguese Reading Room
The Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading was founded on June 14, 1837. Construction began in 1880 under the direction of Portuguese architect Rafael da Silva.
The initiative to establish the library came from a group of 43 Portuguese immigrants who aimed to foster a cultural and literary hub for the Portuguese communities in Brazil.
Completed and opened to the public in 1887, the library was designed in the neo manueline style. The exterior, crafted from limestone, features statues of Portuguese figures such as Pedro Alvares Cabral, Luis de Camoes, Infante D. Henrique, and Vasco da Gama, celebrating Portugal’s age of exploration and its historical impact.
GET YOUR FREE GUIDE!
30 things you need to know before you go to Rio de Janeiro…
Royal Portuguese Reading Room in Rio de Janeiro
When Was the Portuguese Reading Room Built?
Construction of the Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading began in 1880 and was completed in 1887. The building was officially opened to the public in the same year, providing access to a vast collection of Portuguese literature.
Royal Portuguese Reading Room in Rio de Janeiro
How many books are in the Royal Portuguese Reading Room?
The Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading houses one of the largest collections of Portuguese literature outside of Portugal. It has approximately 350 000 volumes, ranging from historical manuscripts to modern publications.
The reading room is famous for its extensive and rare collection of Portuguese literature. Among the treasures housed within its walls are several notable collections that attract scholars and literary enthusiasts from around the world:
- Lusíadas Original Edition (1572): The library holds one of the first editions of “Os Lusíadas,” the epic poem by Luís de Camões, which is considered a masterpiece of Portuguese literature.
- Royal Letters and Manuscripts: A significant collection of royal letters and manuscripts dating back several centuries, offering insights into Portugal and Brazil’s political and cultural exchanges.
- Antique Maps and Plans: The library has a rare collection of antique maps and plans that depict the exploration and colonization of Brazil, showcasing the historical geography of the region.
- Historical Periodicals: An extensive archive of historical periodicals provides a window into the daily life and major events of the Portuguese-speaking world across different eras.
- Photographic Collection: A valuable photographic collection captures the evolution of the Portuguese community in Brazil and the historical moments they witnessed.
These collections serve as a cultural repository and a crucial resource for academic research and public knowledge about the historical ties between Portugal and Brazil.
⚠️ Important to note: Always ask a librarian before touching or opening the texts and books there.
Royal Portuguese Reading Room in Rio de Janeiro
Visiting the Reading Room
The Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading, located at Rua Luís de Camões, 30, in the Centro district of Rio de Janeiro, is open to the public and easily accessible, making it a perfect cultural stop in the city. While visiting, you can explore its vast collections and admire the stunning Neo-Manueline architecture.
🚍 HOW TO GET THERE
The closest metro station is Uruguaiana, which is on Line 1 (Orange) and Line 2 (Green). From the Uruguaiana station, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the library. Exit the station and walk towards Rua Luís de Camões, where the library is situated.
I would recommend taking either the metro or a taxi/uber. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are readily available in Rio de Janeiro. This is a convenient option if you are unfamiliar with the public transport system or prefer a direct route to the destination.
⏰ HOURS & ENTRY FEE
The Royal Portuguese Reading Room hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and is closed on weekends and public holidays.
And the Royal Portuguese Reading Room Price? There is no entry fee, so visitors can freely explore the library’s collections and architecture.
Royal Portuguese Reading Room in Rio de Janeiro
Portuguese Reading Room in Rio De Janeiro Tours
If you aren’t too keen on visiting the Portuguese Library Rio de Janeiro alone, plenty of tours include it as a stop. Here are a couple I think you would love:
➤ Historical Walking Tour of Downtown Rio: Dive into the rich history of Rio de Janeiro during this engaging 4-hour walking tour. Accompanied by a local guide, you’ll start your journey at Cinelandia Square, accessible via a subway ride downtown, just as the ‘cariocas’ (Rio locals) do. Explore significant landmarks, including the Opera House, the National Library, Tiradentes Palace, and the Church of Our Lady of the Merchants. This small-group tour ensures a personalized experience, allowing deeper interaction and discovery. ➥ BOOK IT HERE.
➤ Private Tour – Historic Rio Walk: Experience the historical heart of Rio de Janeiro with this personalized walking tour through the city center. Starting at Cinelândia, your journey spans about 5 km and includes key sites like Largo da Carioca, Santo Antônio Complex, and Tiradentes Square. Dive into the cultural heritage at the Portuguese Reading Room, indulge in the famed Colombo Confectionery, and marvel at historical landmarks like XV Square, the CCBB, Candelária Church, and São Bento Monastery. The tour is fully customizable. ➥ BOOK IT HERE.
➤ Full-Day Private Tour of Rio with Pick Up: Customize your exploration of Rio de Janeiro with this exclusive private tour, crafted just for you and your group. Share your interests with your private guide, who will develop a tailor-made itinerary, ensuring you experience the best of the “marvelous city” in a single day. This tour includes the flexibility to adjust your route as you wish and convenient, hassle-free pickup from most Rio de Janeiro hotels. ➥ BOOK IT HERE.
Royal Portuguese Reading Room in Rio de Janeiro
5 Reasons to Visit the Portuguese Royal Reading Room
Visiting the Rio de Janeiro library offers a unique cultural and aesthetic experience, appealing to literary buffs and architecture enthusiasts. Here are several reasons to include this landmark on your travel itinerary:
1. Architectural Marvel
The exterior’s Neo-Manueline design is a feast for the eyes, reminiscent of Portugal’s most extravagant period of architecture. Inside, the stunning interior features an ornate ceiling, beautifully crafted wooden bookshelves, and a breathtaking skylight that is a glass dome.
2. Historical Significance
Founded in 1837, the library serves as a cultural bridge between Brazil and Portugal, preserving Portuguese literary and historical manuscripts that are invaluable to researchers and historians.
⭐️ Fun Fact: Portugal’s discovery of Brazil occurred when Pedro Álvares Cabral, leading a fleet en route to India, landed on the Brazilian coast on April 22, 1500. He initially believed he had discovered an island named True Cross Island. The landing spot was near what is now Porto Seguro in the state of Bahia.
3. Extensive Collections
Home to the largest collection of Portuguese works outside Portugal, the library offers access to over 350,000 volumes. This includes rare first editions and significant manuscripts, making it a treasure trove for literary enthusiasts.
4. Cultural Hub
The library not only houses books but also hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and academic activities that promote the Portuguese language and culture in Brazil.
5. Accessibility and No Entry Fee
Easy to access in the heart of Rio and free to enter, it provides a free option for experiencing one of the world’s most beautiful libraries.
Royal Portuguese Reading Room in Rio de Janeiro
5 Nearby Attractions
Once you’re done exploring the Portuguese Reading Room, here are a few nearby attractions to continue your journey through Rio de Janeiro:
1. Mercado Uruguaiana
Mercado Uruguaiana is about 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles) from the Portuguese Reading Room, a walk that typically takes around 5-10 minutes.
This market is a popular destination for locals and tourists, offering a wide array of goods at affordable prices. You can find everything from clothing and accessories to electronics and traditional Brazilian souvenirs here.
When visiting Mercado Uruguaiana, be cautious with personal belongings. The bustling nature of the market can attract pickpockets. Keep your wallet and other valuables secure and close to your body. I personally LOVE Travelon and their cross-body anti-theft bags.
💰 Additionally, cash is the preferred payment method here, so it is recommended that you bring enough cash for purchases to avoid any inconvenience, as not all vendors may accept credit cards.
2. Museu do Amanhã (Museum of Tomorrow)
The Museu do Amanhã, situated in the scenic area of Praça Mauá by the waterfront, is a must-visit for anyone interested in science, technology, and the future of our planet.
The museum, designed by Santiago Calatrava and opened in December 2015, stands out not just for its striking architectural design but also for its focus on sustainability and the exploration of future challenges facing humanity.
The Museu do Amanhã is approximately 2.5 km (1.5 miles) from the Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading. It generally takes about 30 minutes to walk between these two locations
3. The Mural das Etnias
Pier Mauá, in the port area of Rio de Janeiro, is a celebrated spot for its expansive display of street art. It is located approximately 2.8 kilometers (about 1.74 miles) from the Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading
This area has become a cultural hub, thanks partly to the colorful murals. Created by the renowned street artist Eduardo Kobra, these murals are celebrated for their vivid colors and striking depictions of historical figures and cultural icons.
In honor of the Rio 2016 Olympics, Kobra created the Mural das Etnias, named “Todos Somos Um” (We Are All One). This mural is 15 meters high and 170 meters long and covers a total area of 3,000 square meters.
For its creation, 1,800 liters of white paint were used for the background, 700 liters of colored paint, and 3,000 spray cans were utilized to complete the artwork.
🤯 This mural is the biggest graffiti ever created. The Guinness Book made the news official in August 2016.
4. Candelária Church
Just over a kilometer from the Portuguese Reading Room, the Candelária Church is an iconic historical landmark in Rio de Janeiro.
This magnificent church is known for its beautiful architecture, which blends Baroque, Neoclassical, and Neo-Renaissance styles. The church’s interior is adorned with stunning frescoes and stained-glass windows, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Candelária Church is a place of worship and a symbol of Rio’s rich historical tapestry.
5. Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil (CCBB)
The Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil, located about 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles) from the Portuguese Reading Room, is a cultural hub housed in a stunning historic building.
Known locally as CCBB, it’s one of the most visited cultural centers in the world. The center offers diverse exhibitions, theatrical performances, and film screenings. It also hosts educational programs and musical performances, making it a vital part of Rio’s cultural landscape.
Final Thoughts: Portuguese Reading Room in Rio de Janeiro
Exploring the Portuguese Reading Room offers more than just an opportunity to read Portuguese literature. It’s a complete culture trip through time and creativity.
This stunning library not only houses an extensive collection of Portuguese texts but also serves as a gateway to discovering the rich historical and artistic tapestry of Rio de Janeiro.
Whether you’re a book lover, history enthusiast, or cultural explorer, the Portuguese Reading Room stands as a beacon of knowledge and cultural heritage in the heart of the city.
One Comment