Do you know what Bruna Marquezine’s 30th birthday party and the last Empire Ball have in common? Both events had the same address: Ilha Fiscal, which is right in the middle of Guanabara Bay.
But despite being one of Rio de Janeiro’s main tourist attractions, not everyone knows how to visit and what to do there. So we’ ll tell you!
Ilha Fiscal was the scene of the last Empire Ball
The small island in Guanabara Bay has been the scene of many historical events. However, one of the most famous was known as “The Last Ball of the Empire”, since the party took place in November 1889, a few days before the Proclamation of the Republic.
Originally it was called Ilha dos Ratos by the Portuguese, both because of its shape, which resembled the animal’s anatomy, and because of the supposed presence of rodents roaming around.
The current name – much more pleasant – was given in the 19th century, since it was also home to the Guarda Fiscal (tax guard) post, which served the port of the capital of the Empire.
What to do on Ilha Fiscal?
Time has passed, but Ilha Fiscal is still standing and is currently one of the main tourist attractions in Rio de Janeiro. And there’s plenty to do there!
First of all, we must mention the “little castle”, which you can see before you even get there. It was designed by the engineer Adolpho José Del Vecchio and impresses with its architectural beauty in neo-Gothic style.
There are also several other attractions on the island, such as the turret, the exhibition rooms, the historic boats, including a submarine, and much more! It’ s well worth a trip to immerse yourself in history!
Schooner or by land: how to get to Ilha Fiscal
For those who want to visit the island and its facilities, there are two options.
One is by schooner and lasts an average of 10 to 20 minutes, with up to 90 seats available each time. However, this route depends on the weather and, if the weather is bad, the tour won’t take place.
The other option is by land, in a 75-seater minibus, which also leaves at specific times and takes on average the same time as the schooner.
How much do tickets to Ilha Fiscal cost?
Tickets to visit Ilha Fiscal start at R$30 (half-price) and you can buy them in person or on the Navy’s website. There you’ll find all the details about prices, timetables and also information about freebies and discounts.
In addition, the ticket also entitles you to visit the Navy Cultural Space at no extra cost.
Have you been to Ilha Fiscal?