From the amalgamation of the Santiago Fortress, the Casa do Trem and the War Arsenal, in 1922 the largest History museum in Brazil, the National History Museum, was formed. Its buildings date back to the 17th century and retain vestiges of the Colonial, Imperial, and Republican periods in their architecture. This is one of the largest architectural complexes in the city of Rio de Janeiro.
MHN - letreiro com o nome do Museu (2010/2013) by Ricardo BheringMuseu Histórico Nacional
In the area where a city was born, there is a place that tells the story of an entire country.
Culture and Tranquility
A visit to the National History Museum is more than just learning about history and seeing works of art. The architecture of the place is enchanting. The details of the construction, which reflect the Colonial, Imperial, and Republican periods are striking. Besides all this, it is a quiet place to relax.
MHN - Pátio Santiago (2010/2013) by José CaldasMuseu Histórico Nacional
Patio Santiago
One of the main defensive points from sea-borne attacks of the city of Rio de Janeiro. In the background, the Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain).
MHN - Casa do Trem (2010/2013) by Lau TorquatoMuseu Histórico Nacional
Casa do Trem
A foundry was installed in this building—from where the first bronze sculptures in America were produced by Master Valentim in 1783. The Royal Military Academy was founded here in 1811.
MHN - fachada da Casa do Trem à noite (2010/2013) by José CaldasMuseu Histórico Nacional
From 1822, independence saw the Arsenal became a major center for the production and storage of weapons and ammunition for the Brazilian Army.
MHN - Pátio da Minerva (2010/2013) by Lau TorquatoMuseu Histórico Nacional
Patio Minerva
Area used for receptions and cultural activities.
Brasões (2017/2017) by Adriana Bandeira CordeiroMuseu Histórico Nacional
Coats of Arms and their meanings delight visitors in this area adjoining the Patio of Minerva.
MHN - entrada do Pátio dos Canhões (2010/2013) by Lau TorquatoMuseu Histórico Nacional
Here begins a journey combining arts and weapons.
Pátio dos Canhões (2017 - 2017) by Adriana Bandeira CordeiroMuseu Histórico Nacional
Patio of the Cannons
Copies of Portuguese, English, French, Dutch, and Brazilian cannons, representing various periods of our history can be seen here. The cannons have braille subtitles.
MHN - vista superior do Pátio dos Canhões (2010/2013) by Lau TorquatoMuseu Histórico Nacional
Top view of the Patio of the Cannons.
Pátio dos Canhões fountain by Lau TorquatoMuseu Histórico Nacional
The fountain in the center of the courtyard is popular for photographs.
Pátio dos Canhões ao anoitecer (2017/2017) by Adriana Bandeira CordeiroMuseu Histórico Nacional
The Patio of the Cannons at nightfall.
MHN - Pátio Gustavo Barroso (2010/2013) by Ricardo BheringMuseu Histórico Nacional
Patio Gustavo Barroso
Space that functions as a support for major exhibitions and as a leisure area.
MHN - torre e telhado (2010/2013) by Lau TorquatoMuseu Histórico Nacional
Attention-grabbing architecture in the midst of a large and modern metropolis.
MHN - jardim (2010/2013) by Lau TorquatoMuseu Histórico Nacional
The surroundings of the National History Museum are pleasantly green.
Panorâmica da Exposição de 1922 (1922/1922) by Augusto MaltaMuseu Histórico Nacional
Panoramic photo taken by Augusto Malta at 1922 during the International Exhibition that celebrated Brazilian Independence first centenary. At the beginning of 20th century the War Arsenal was transferred and the military architectural complex was reformulated, becoming the Pavilion of the Great Industries during the Exhibition. The National History Museum, created in 1922 by President Epitacio Pessoa, was installed in this building. To the right is the Pavilion of Parties.
MHN - vista aérea moderna (2010/2013) by Lau TorquatoMuseu Histórico Nacional
Image inspired by the photo of Augustus Malta, 1922. The architectural complex stands out in the middle of the city, identifying an era and telling a new history to the future.
President of Brazil
Michel Temer
Minister of State for Culture
Roberto Freire
President of Brazilian Museums Institute
Marcelo Mattos Araújo
Director of National History Museum
Paulo Knauss de Mendonça
Administrative Coordinator
Américo David Aurélio
Technical Coordinator
Vania Drummond Bonelli
Thanks to
José Caldas
Lau Torquato
Ricardo Bhering
MHN – 2017
