History & Culture

Santa Teresa

One of the most historical and artistic neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro, Santa Teresa sits on top of a hill near downtown and preserves its charming streets, mansions and churches from the 19th century. Famous for its tram, bohemian atmosphere and artistic soul, Santa Teresa is a unique combination of history, culture, architecture and authentic carioca lifestyle.

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.