Architecture & Religion

Metropolitan Cathedral

One of Rio de Janeiro’s most iconic architectural landmarks, the Metropolitan Cathedral impresses visitors with its unique conical design and massive dimensions. With capacity for thousands of people and spectacular stained-glass panels rising from floor to ceiling, the cathedral combines modern architecture, spirituality and one of the city’s most remarkable interiors.

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.