Palácio São Joaquim

“A palace fit for a cardinal,” whispered Isabella, adjusting her sunglasses as we stood before Palácio São Joaquim. The palace, a mix of architectural styles, exuded a quiet grandeur. Palácio São Joaquim isn’t just a pretty face. It holds a special place in Rio’s history. Built between 1912 and 1918, it was designed as the residence for Rio de Janeiro’s first cardinal archbishop, Dom Joaquim Arcoverde de Albuquerque Cavalcanti. The location itself has a fascinating past. It once housed the palacete of Manuel Lopes Pereira Baía, the Baron and Viscount of Meriti. His lavish balls, attended by Emperor Pedro II and Empress Teresa Cristina, were legendary. In fact, the first instance of ice cream being served at a family gathering in Rio was at one of these very balls in 1835. Imagine the whispers and excitement as this new, frozen delicacy was presented. Later, the palacete became the home of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before eventually being demolished to make way for our Palácio São Joaquim. Inside, the artistic legacy continues. Look closely, and you’ll find works by renowned Brazilian painters Benedito Calixto and Carlos Oswald. Oswald’s artistry is especially prominent, with several pieces gracing the palace walls, including a magnificent 45-square-meter mural on the chapel ceiling. Palácio São Joaquim has also witnessed more recent historical events. During World Youth Day in 2013, Pope Francis offered the Angelus prayer from its balcony to a crowd gathered below. As you admire the palace, remember the layers of history held within. From lavish imperial balls to papal blessings, Palácio São Joaquim has truly witnessed the unfolding tapestry of Rio’s vibrant past.