Fort Copacabana
Historical Museum of the Army and Copacabana Fort
Opened in 1914 Fort Copacabana is now a fascinating museum showcasing many exhibits pertaining to the Brazilian Army. The fort also provides visitors with superb views of the ocean and beaches.
Located on a rocky outcrop at the southern tip of Copacabana Beach, also the former site of little church Our Lady of Copacabana, construction on Fort Copacabana began in 1908 and the fort was put in service in 1914 to guard the entrance to Guanabara Bay and adjacent beaches. When first established it was regarded to be more modern than any other fortification on the continent.
The fort was involved in some historic events, most notably the 1922 revolt of the Fort of Copacabana a military uprising against the powers of the day that in the end was unsuccessful, but set the stage for some subsequent uprisings.
In 1987, with the need to defend the bay by means of a Fortification no longer relevant, the Coast Artillery Batteries were abolished and the fort was repurposed into the Army History Museum which it continues as today.
Just about anyone will enjoy visiting Forte de Copacabana as there is truly something for everyone. The views of the entrance to the bay and the adjacent beach is superb. Inside the fort you will have fun exploring the many different rooms and passageways to see what discoveries lie in wait. There are also some beautiful dioramas depicting various events in the history of Brazil.
With its scenic location and so much to see for a very reasonable admission fee, you should definitely consider taking time for a visit to the Historical Museum of the Army and Copacabana Fort.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesFort Copacabana Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Address: Praça Cel. Eugênio Franco, 1, Posto 6 - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22070-020, Brazil
Official Website: Fort Copacabana
Fort Copacabana Reviews
Rated out of 5
It was nice surprise, I didn't expect it to be a lovely site to visit with museum and an awesome view of Copacabana beach and ocean. I would visit it some 2 hours before sunset. Entry ticket is by cash only R$10 per adult.
Fahmey Eusoff - a week ago
Amazing spot for late afternoon. You will access the restricted side of the ocean. Beautifully shaped rocks . Many cafes available inside with sea view . You can sit and relax . There is a museum inside and you can get to the top of a huge canon . The toilet needs more care.
Yousef Alkhudair - 3 weeks ago
Lovely spot to watch the sunset with great views of Copacabana and the coastline. There’s a small museum (in Portuguese) that gives some interesting historical context, and it was very cool to see how the old military gun operates. Entry is around $2 USD—cash only—so bring some local currency. A peaceful and scenic place to explore away from the crowds.
Amy Singh - 6 months ago
Had a nice drink with a nice view of Rio de Janeiro at Cafe 18 do Forte. Also saw a lot of people enjoying some tasty food, prices are a bit higher but lovely place to eat something and have a good rink
Michael Cheung - 4 months ago
Directions
| Metro Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Line 1 - Orange | Ipanema/General Osório Station | 15 MInutes |
How to get to Fort Copacabana by Metro
Take the metro to Ipanema/General Osório Station, exit and walk west along Rua Visconde de Piraja; where it curves to the left go right onto Rua Canning for one block; left on Av/ Rainha Elizabthe da Belgica for one block; right on Rua Bulhoes Carvalho to the end; left on Rua Francisco Otaviano and continue to the entrance which is on your right just before the road curves to follow the beach.
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Accommodations near Fort Copacabana:
Photo Gallery
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Canons aimed across the entrance to Guanabara Bay from Fort Copacabana cc licensed photo by Jorge Wagner -
Forte de Copacabana cc licensed photo by Jorge Wagner -
cc licensed photo by Jorge Wagner -
Photo Credit: Leandro returns - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edwardotis - cc license via Flickr
