Unmissable Destinations
The city is as busy by night as it is by
day due to its population of university students
» Petropolis
Petropolis, an Imperial relic
In the small, charming highland city of
Petrópolis, Brazilian History is not merely found within
the confines of the Imperial Museum, former summer home of Emperor
Dom Pedro II, to this day surrounded by splendid gardens. There
you can find decorated spaces, works of art and rare objects
(like his chiseled gold crown decorated with pearls and gems).
Still, those who truly want to get to know the city and its
History should take a ride in one of the many carriages parked
right out front.
Petrópolis is a multi-faceted city, and although it was
founded in 1843 it carries a "touch" of modernity,
which the carriage ride quickly demonstrates. Its urban plan,
which follows the course of the rivers, was considered quite
bold for its time. As were its main buildings, the Crystal Palace,
built in France to host parties and exhibitions, and São
Pedro de Alcântara Cathedral, with its neogothic style.
One of the main symbols of the city’s modernity is aviation
pioneer Santos Dumont’s house, a quite peculiar Alps style
chalet. Its stair steps are cut in such a way as to force the
user to start their climb with the “right” foot.
Another is close by, in front of Petrópolis’ Catholic
University: it’s the Flower Clock, as pretty as it is
precise, with its chimes every half-hour.
The city, which has already served as the capital of Rio de
Janeiro state from 1894-1903, is as busy by night as it is by
day due to its population of university students. It also welcomes
many tourists, especially those who frequent Teresa Street,
a clothing and accessory fashion center offering factory prices.
It is truly worth a visit.
How to get there
By car, starting on Rodovia Washington Luís, via BR-40
with its stunning scenic beauty. Regular bus service from the
Novo Rio bus station to the city, which is only an hour from
Rio de Janeiro, at 809 meters above sea level.
Main attractions
Quitandinha, built in Norman style to be the largest hotel casino
in South America. Its interior design is hollywoodesque. Marble
bathtubs, crystal chandeliers and halls with room for 10,000
people. Outside, there is a lake shaped like the Brazilian map.
Obelisk shaped monument, 20 meters high, in homage to the city’s
founders.
Shows by the internationally known children’s choirs Canarinhos
de Petrópolis and Meninas Cantoras de Petrópolis.
Website
http://www.petropolis.rj.gov.br
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