History & Architecture

Fiscal Island

Known worldwide as the setting of the famous “Last Ball of the Empire,” Fiscal Island is one of Rio de Janeiro’s most fascinating historical landmarks. Visitors can explore its elegant neo-gothic palace, discover exhibitions, climb the tower and learn about important moments that marked the final years of the Brazilian Empire.

Botanical Gardens

Botanical Gardens - Created in 1808 by D. João VI of Portugal, the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden (JBRJ) is famous for the exuberance and the scientific importance of its plant collection, as well as for the beauty of its landscapes. Its bicentennial history is expressed in its monuments, buildings and artworks.

The visitors can walk along the alleys or rent an electric car to see plants from all over the world, visit the greenhouses (Orchids, Bromeliads, Ferns, Insectivorous Plants) and the thematic collections and gardens, like the Japanese Garden, created in 1935 from the donation of 65 species of tipical Japanese plants.

Among the monuments, we highlight the Visitor’s Center – a XVI century bulding -, the statues of Eco and Narciso by Mestre Valentim, and the Academy of Fine Arts Portal, projected by Grandjean de Montigny. The Garden is also an excellent place for bird watching.