One of the symbols of modernist architecture worldwide, the Capanema Palace is open again. But that’s not all! Cariocas and tourists will have the chance to enter this historic building, which will now have free guided tours from August. Find out more details and how to book your visit!
The building is one of the greatest symbols of modern architecture in the world
The Capanema Palace is one of the greatest symbols of modernist architecture in the world. This is because it was built in the 1930s and designed by the architect Lúcio Costa. But that’s not all! The project had contributions from other great names in architecture, such as Oscar Niemeyer, Affonso Eduardo Reidy, Carlos Leão, Jorge Moreira and Ernani Vasconcelos.
In addition to its architectural importance, the Capanema Palace is also a cultural symbol, as it was initially designed to house the then Ministry of Education and Public Health.
It is currently home to a number of Ministry of Culture bodies, such as the National Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN), the National Library of Brazil, Casa de Rui Barbosa and, more recently, Funarte.
It is also worth noting that the building houses important works of art by Cândido Portinari, the tiles by Paulo Osir and the hanging garden signed by Burle Marx .
Find out about the guided tours of the Capanema Palace
After a long period of renovation, the Capanema Palace was reopened to the public in May 2025, but it was still not possible to visit the inside of the building.
However, the good news is that, as of August 7, the iconic building will have free guided tours! They will take place every Thursday and Friday, always at specific times. Students from the School of Architecture and Urbanism at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro will lead the tours.
The visits will take place in Portuguese, but there will also be sessions in English at certain times. To take part and find out more information, you need to book on the official website of the Ministry of Culture at least 24 hours in advance.