MAC de Niterói - Contemporary Art Museum
The Building That Speaks For Itself : Niteroi Contemporary Art Museum
If you are coming to Niteroi for the first time you will be forgiven for thinking that the Niteroi Contemporary Art Museum (Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Niterói— MAC) is in actual fact a UFO perched above the beach on a hill. This unique architecture was designed by Oscar Neimeyer who is a very famous Brazilian modernist architect and in fact one of the leaders of the Brazilian modernist movement. The building was completed in 1996 and is one of Brazil's more famous landmarks.
The structure is like a 'flying saucer' with windows that wrap around its circumference. The building is 16 metres high and its cupola, which is 50 metres, has three floors. At the base of the structure you will find a pool known as the reflecting pool that surrounds the base like a moat. The pool covers 817 square metres and completely surrounds the museum, making the structure look like it is rising from the water. The entrance of the building is a winding, wide ramp which snakes up to the front entrance keeping to the theme of curves in the design. The overall look is very fluid and pleasing to the eye.
Once inside the big windows that wrap around the building allow a breathtaking 360 degree view of the Guanabara Bay, Sugar Loaf Mountain, the beaches and large sections of Rio de Janeiro.
The design of the building allows uninterrupted views of the inside of the museum and its contemporary art pieces. Some feel that there is a lack of diversity in the art work, but that is a matter of opinion.
We suggest checking the official website above to see which exhibitions are on display at the museum to help decide when you would like to go, however, it is well worth the journey just to see the striking architecture and beautiful setting of this spectacular landmark.
Admission is free to everyone on Wednesdays and to children 6 and under everyday.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes, Free on WednesdaysMAC de Niterói - Contemporary Art Museum Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: Mirante da Boa Viagem, s/nº - Boa Viagem, Niterói - RJ, 24210-390, Brazil
Official Website: MAC de Niterói - Contemporary Art Museum
MAC de Niterói - Contemporary Art Museum Reviews
Rated out of 5
As a building, it is stunning and iconic, quite unique. But get a little closer, and you start seeing the failed promise of modernist architecture. Impossible to maintain, quick to show its age, and dependent on highly qualified workers, which this project clearly lacked. Watch your step when climbing the stairs from the 2nd to the 3rd floor, there is such a height difference between them! The art collection on show is forgettable at best, and the filthy grey carpet and unbalanced lighting in the galleries are not flattering to any pieces. Best to appreciate from a distance.
Simon D - a month ago
The architecture is SPECTACULAR.. an iconic building that deserves the accolades it so richly deserves.
Unfortunately upon my visit the exhibition was not ready for viewing which was a shame.. however there were some pieces of modern art on show that were interesting.
The views of Rio from inside the building are nothing short of amazing with a 270 degree vista of the bay and surrounding areas.
Well worth the visit..
Patrick Macky - 6 months ago
One of the most stunning architectural places I’ve ever seen. The backdrop of the Rio de Janeiro beach and mountains is unbelievable. The actual museum is small, with only two exhibitions, but it was thoughtfully curated. The bistro on the bottom floor was an absolute must—and included a beautiful view. It was one of the best restaurant food I’ve had during my stay, as well. Go to this place. It’s incredible.
Andre Bohrer - 6 months ago
Did not have the time to enter but I know it was cheap and reasonable as a fee (I think 20 reals). There was around 8 paintings available outside for free. You can take pictures from the beach, where you enter and underneath it (see pics). Lovely neighborhood and I felt safe! Spend some time at the beach. The cave below is only 3 - 5 meters. Not too fancy!
Antoine Assaad - a year ago
Amazing! But I think It is worth less pay the entry! Outside is better than inside!!! Trust me!
Diego Salgado - a month ago
Directions
| Metro, Ferry and Bus Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Line 1 - Orange | Carioca Station | 11 Minutes + Ferry and Bus |
How to get to MAC de Niterói - Contemporary Art Museum by Metro, Ferry and Bus
Make your way by Metro to Carioca Station. Exit and walk across the plaza towards the east and cross over to Rua San Jose. Follow it east as far as it goes passing beneath the express way into the plaza at the Praca XV ferry wharf. This is about a 10 minute walk. Purchase a ticket for the ARARIBOIA SQUARE ferry and take it across to Niteroi. Take bus 47B southbound at Araribóia Square. (This will require an additional fare). You can also walk from the Ferry Terminal in a southerly direction via Av. Visconde do Rio Ranco; left Av. Badger da Silverira; continue Rua Sao Sebastiao; Continue Rua Dr. Paul Alves; left Praia Joao Caetano (about 25 minutes).
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Accommodations near MAC de Niterói - Contemporary Art Museum:
Photo Gallery
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Looking towards Sugar Loaf Mountain from the MAC cc licensed photo by Rodrigo Soldon -
Contemporary art exhibit inside the museum cc licensed photo by marcusrg -
Enjoying the spectacular vistas from inside the Museum of Contemporary Art in Niterói cc licensed photo by pedro botton -
Striking view of the MAM overlooking the beach cc licensed photo by Rodrigo Soldon
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