Museu do Açude

Who could imagine a museum nestled within a forest? Here at the Museu do Açude, that unlikely pairing becomes a reality. This isn’t just any museum; it’s a unique blend of art, history, and nature, all tucked away in Rio de Janeiro’s Tijuca Forest. The Museu do Açude began its life as a private estate, purchased in 1913. Raymundo Ottoni de Castro Maya, a prominent industrialist and art collector, transformed the property in the 1920s. He eventually gifted it to the Fundação Raymundo Ottoni de Castro Maya in 1962, and in 1964, on Castro Maya’s birthday, the Museu do Açude opened its doors to the public. The museum buildings themselves, four in total, are part of the story, reflecting a neocolonial Brazilian style with charming arches and colorful Portuguese roof tiles. The Museu do Açude houses a fascinating array of collections. You’ll find Asian art, including rare Chinese sculptures, 17th-19th century woodblock prints, and even East India Company porcelain. European decorative arts are also represented, with furniture, silver, and crystal pieces spanning the 17th to 19th centuries. A significant collection of Portuguese and other European tiles adds another layer of artistic richness, with many panels decorating the residence. This isn’t just a museum of objects; it’s also a museum of place. The Museu do Açude embraces its natural surroundings. Its 151,132 square meters within Tijuca National Park create an outdoor gallery where contemporary sculptures interact with the forest environment. The “Permanent Installations Space,” curated by Marcio Doctors, features works by artists like Anna Maria Maiolino, Helio Oiticica, and Lygia Pape. The interplay between art and nature offers a unique perspective. The gardens themselves are a work of art, providing a beautiful backdrop for special exhibitions. The Museu do Açude has also played a role in popular culture, serving as the exterior set for the mansion in the famous telenovela “Roque Santeiro.” This adds another layer of intrigue to this already captivating place. So as you explore the Museu do Açude, remember, you’re experiencing more than just a collection of artifacts. You’re stepping into the vision of Raymundo Ottoni de Castro Maya. You’re witnessing a harmonious blend of art, history, and the vibrant natural world of Brazil.