CCBB RJ - Bank of Brazil Cultural Centre

Much To See and Do at Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil Rio de Janeiro

Bank of Brazil Cultural Centre RJ at night
Bank of Brazil Cultural Centre RJ at night cc licensed photo by Rodrigo Soldon

Even if you do not speak Portuguese you are right in thinking that 'banco' means 'bank'. Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil Rio de Janeiro is translated into English as 'Bank of Brazil Cultural Center' and, although it is not a bank now but in fact a natural history and art museum, the reason for the name is that it once was a bank.

The building, which was the design of Francisco Joaquim Bethencourt da Silva, has been done in an art-deco style and is the largest of the CCBB institutions. Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil started in 1986 but officially opened its doors at the current location in 1989. The former bank has been immaculately restored to its original glory giving you a real appreciation of the beautiful architecture. It has made it into the ranks of the top one hundred art museums in the world based on the number of visitors.

Inside the building you will find multiple art galleries, three theatres, a cinema, a library, a book store, coffee shops and a restaurant. Due to the fact that this was previously a bank the building has ample space to accommodate all of the exhibitions and cultural activities that take place inside. It is in fact the largest of the three CCBB institutions, the other two are the branches in Brasilia and São Paulo, the smallest of the two being the branch in Brasilia.

The changing exhibitions are done in a variety of themes which could include the use of paintings, video footage and actors to play out certain parts. This makes each exhibition interesting and unique. Even if you have already been there before, you will always find something new.

Entry into the art museum is free and this is truly a gift as you get to see some fine art pieces and really get a sense of Rio's history. You will also find that fees for other shows or exhibitions are really well priced.

Located in Rue Primeiro De Marco 66, which used to be the old financial district of Rio de Janeiro, the museum is in the centre of down town Rio so it is easy to get to. Over the weekends however, when the streets are quieter, taking a taxi as a safety precaution is recommended as deserted streets can put one at unnecessary risk.

All in all, it's a wonderful way to experience some more of Brazil's historic culture.

Facts For Your Visit

Official Website: Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil - CCBB

Fee: Entry is free, however there are fees for some of the shows and exhibitions.

Open Now

Regular Hours:
Hours may be subject to change. Please verify on the official website.

  • Monday: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Wednesday: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Thursday: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Friday: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Saturday: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Sunday: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm

Category: Cultural Center

Address: R. Primeiro de Março, 66
Rio de Janeiro - RJ 20010-000
Brazil

Phone: +55 21 3808-2020

Reviews

Yelp Rating:
5 out of 5 5 Star Rating
Based on 60 Reviews.

See all reviews on Yelp

5 Star Rating Every time I go to Rio, I love checking out the exhibits here. This July, I got here just in time to check out the Picasso and Spanish Modern Art exhibit.... Read More

Saree C. Jul-21-2015

5 Star Rating Free exhibit of Salvador Dali's work at the cultural center!! What what!!! Great activity (thank you random stranger at a bar for telling me) for a rainy... Read More

Ashley N. Jun-19-2014

5 Star Rating CCBB is a huge cultural center in Rio de Janeiro based in a beautiful building with an imposing entrance hall. It is located next to Candelária in the... Read More

Yordy R. Feb-21-2015

Accommodations near Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil - CCBB:

Directions

Metro Line Nearest Station Walking Time
Line 1 -OrangeUruguaiana6 Minutes

How to get to Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil - CCBB by Metro

Exit Metro Line 1 at Uruguaniana Station and walk straight east along Av. Presidente Vargas past Candelária Church. Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil is just past the church on your right.

Map & Instant Route Finder

Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.

Load Interactive Map
Finding Your Route - Please Wait

Photo Gallery

Video


Setting up the Cai Guo-Qiang Exhibition at the CCBB in Rio de Janeiro

Visiting Rio de Janeiro?
Here's why we use Booking.com for our hotel bookings.
Best Selection
Daily Deals
Price Matching
Pay at the Hotel
24/7 Support
Share on Pinterest
Share on Pinterest
Help us grow! Please Share
Thanks for Visiting!