Beneath the Rio sun, the Monumento Maçom stands. It commemorates the silver jubilee of Loja Universo. This lodge is a cornerstone of Carioca Freemasonry. It was founded August 25, 1981.
This monument marks a significant milestone. It represents 25 years of history for Loja Universo. The lodge, numbered 2110, holds a special place in Rio’s Masonic community. Its establishment in 1981 marked a new chapter.
Imagine the dedication poured into this monument. Freemasons from various lodges collaborated. They include Universo, Paranapuan and José Joaquim Fernandes. Ilha do Governador, Ayrton Senna and Grão-Mestre Lauro Sodré lodges also took part. Each contributed to the monument’s creation.
Alberto Neves Borges from Loja Universo conceived the idea. He crafted the monument. His vision became a reality through combined efforts. The Grande Oriente do Estado do Rio de Janeiro supported this project.
Dignitaries attended the inauguration August 18. Sérgio Romay, the Grand Master, led the ceremony. Eduardo Gomes, the Deputy Grand Master, was also present. Ubiratan Rufino, the Chief of Staff attended. José Paulo Duarte, the Grand Secretary of Transport and Lodging, joined too. Their presence highlighted the monument’s importance.
Masonic figures, civilians and military personnel attended. Brothers from Rio de Janeiro lodges gathered. The monument stands at the entrance of Ilha do Governador. It serves as a symbol of unity and remembrance.
The Grande Oriente do Brasil also resides in Rio. It stands as a testament to Brazilian Freemasonry’s architectural and cultural importance. Its headquarters are located on Rua do Lavradio. The building gained protected status in 1972.
In 1848, Masonic lodges acquired land. The land held an unfinished theater. The building’s exterior showcases Masonic symbols. These are set within a classical design. The building houses a Masonic museum. Inside are paintings and sculptures. The Grande Oriente’s historical role influenced its preservation.
The Palácio Maçônico do Lavradio will open to the public. Its construction dates back to 1830. The Inepac declared it a heritage site in 1972. This recognized Freemasonry’s historical importance during the Brazilian imperial period.
Initially, the building was intended as a school. It would teach dance and theater. Financial constraints led to its acquisition by Freemasons. They used it for weekly meetings. Later, it housed the Grande Oriente do Brasil from 1842 to 1978. It stands as Brazil’s oldest Masonic authority.
Inside the Palácio Maçônico are eleven halls and ten temples. The Sala do Conselho and Templo Nobre stand out. The palace displays portraits of historical figures. Dom Pedro I and José Bonifácio are among them. A chair meant for Dom Pedro I’s son is displayed.
A table used in the first three cabinet meetings is also there. Ministers, all Freemasons, met there after Brazil became a Republic. Legend says Dom Pedro I finalized the Dia do Fico at this table.
Rio de Janeiro has about 7,500 Freemasons today. High-ranking officials still meet in the Sala do Conselho. Lodges host member gatherings. The monument and the Grande Oriente embody Masonic history. They also show its lasting influence in Rio de Janeiro.