Museu Nacional de Belas Artes
The Museu Nacional de Belas Artes holds Brazil's largest collection of 19th-century painting and sculpture inside an eclectic 1908 building by architect Adolfo Morales de los Ríos.
The collection traces back to the Portuguese royal court's move to Brazil in the early 19th century, when King John VI brought part of the Portuguese Royal Collection with him; those works stayed in Brazil and became the core holdings of the National School of Fine Arts. The museum itself was established in 1937 and inaugurated in 1938 by President Getúlio Vargas, inheriting both the school's collection and its building.
More than 20,000 pieces span paintings, sculptures, drawings, and prints, from the High Middle Ages to contemporary work, alongside smaller collections of decorative, folk, and African art. The building was listed as Brazilian national heritage in 1973. It opens Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 to 18:00, and weekends from 12:00 to 17:00.
How to go
It is a walk of about 15 minutes from the studio.
Visit info
- Address
- Avenida Rio Branco, 199, Centro, Rio de Janeiro, 20040-008
- Phone
- +55 21 2219 8474
Walking directions
Stay nearby
Stay at Mural da Lapa, a walk from a museum that holds the country's largest 19th-century art collection.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Museu Nacional de Belas Artes 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 Museu Nacional de Belas Artes or check for updates?
Yes, by phone at +55 21 2219 8474.