Instituto de Pesquisa e Memória Pretos Novos
Photo: Halley Pacheco de Oliveira (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Instituto de Pesquisa e Memória Pretos Novos


The IPN grew out of an accidental find: renovating their own home on Rua Pedro Ernesto in 1996, a couple uncovered human bone fragments mixed with pottery, glass, and iron.

The discovery led professionals to confirm an archaeological site of major historical importance, the Cemitério dos Pretos Novos, a burial ground for enslaved Africans who died shortly after landing at Cais do Valongo. The institute, founded in 2005, now manages the cemetery and its memorial, with a library and contemporary art gallery focused on African and Afro-Brazilian heritage.

Its name honors the pretos novos — the term used for Africans newly arrived in Rio and sold at the slave market nearby.

How to go

It is a walk of about 15 minutes from the studio.

Visit info

Address
Rua da Conceição, Gamboa, Rio de Janeiro, 20081-190
Website
pretosnovos.com.br

Walking directions

Open walking directions in Google Maps

Stay nearby

Stay at Mural da Lapa and walk to a memorial built from an accidental discovery beneath a family home.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Instituto de Pesquisa e Memória Pretos Novos from Mural da Lapa?

About 15 minutes on foot from the studio. Open the walking directions above for the exact route.

How can I contact Instituto de Pesquisa e Memória Pretos Novos or check for updates?

Yes, through the official site (pretosnovos.com.br).

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