Municipal Theatre | Teatro Municipal
Teatro Municipal - One of the most beautiful buildings in Rio
When making your way around Rio De Janeiro you are bound to come to the centre of the city and right there in the centre is where you will find the Municipal Theatre (Teatro Municipal). One of the most beautiful buildings in the city of Rio, the Municipal Theatre stands in all its splendour as a testament to the impeccable craftsmanship of the architects and builders of those times.
Built in the early 1900s, the theatre is the handiwork of Francisco de Oliveira Passos. The construction commenced in 1905 and was finished in 1909, with the theatre being inaugurated on the 14 July 1909. The time taken to build this master piece was only 4 years, a feat that required 280 workers who needed to work double shifts in order to complete the construction in time.
Day and night, workers hammered away, building, carrying and hoisting in order to meet the standards of the new era of the republican regime, an era in which Rio de Janeiro would take centre stage as being the most elegant and opulent capital in South America. Most of the architecture and town planning of that period was modelled after the architecture of Europe and the architecture of the Municipal Theatre was eclectic architecture.
The decision to build the theatre in this style was not a novel idea, but in fact part of a grand plan to revamp the city and to change its façade. By the time the Municipal Theatre (Teatro Municipal) was built there were already other beautiful buildings done in the same eclectic style dotting the newly created Parisian inspired boulevards.
The inside of the theatre building is just as impressive as the outside and this is no surprise when you come to know that the most famous and talented Brazilian sculptors and painters of all time including the Bernardelli brothers, Rodolfo Amoedo and Eliseu Visconti worked on the interior. The stained glass windows and mosaic tiles artisans were ordered in from Europe especially for the project.
The theatre initially held 1,739 people but has since been expanded to hold 2,369. The sheer number of people and space within the theatre make watching shows there something to be experienced.
If you have the opportunity, be sure to see a show or two at this amazing theatre. Take time in the intermission to appreciate the architecture and art showcased so magnificently. If you cannot see a show you can still enjoy one of 4 guided tours available on Saturdays for a nominal fee.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes. Public tours are available for a nominal fee. Tickets for performances are also available from the ticket box office which is open daily from 10am-6pmMunicipal Theatre | Teatro Municipal Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- 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: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
Address: Praça Floriano, S/N - Centro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20031-050, Brazil
Phone: (21) 2332-9134
Official Website: Municipal Theatre | Teatro Municipal
Municipal Theatre | Teatro Municipal Reviews
Rated out of 5
My recent visit to the Theatro Municipal do Rio de Janeiro to see the opera "Pérola" was a truly enchanting experience. From the moment I stepped into the majestic lobby, I was transported to a bygone era of elegance and grandeur. The architecture of the theater is simply breathtaking, with its intricate details and opulent decor creating a sense of awe and anticipation.
The performance of "Pérola" itself was a masterpiece. The orchestra was phenomenal, filling the hall with a rich and powerful sound that resonated with every note. The singers were exceptional, delivering their complex arias with a passion and skill that captivated the entire audience. The staging was beautiful, with stunning costumes and clever use of lighting that enhanced the dramatic storytelling.
What I found particularly impressive was the way the entire production came together so seamlessly. The collaboration between the musicians, singers, and technical crew was flawless, resulting in a performance that was both emotionally moving and technically brilliant.
The Theatro Municipal do Rio de Janeiro is more than just a venue; it is a cultural landmark that continues to uphold the highest standards of artistic excellence. Attending a performance here is not just an evening out; it's an opportunity to witness world-class artistry in a truly magnificent setting. I highly recommend anyone visiting Rio to check their schedule and experience the magic for themselves. It was a night I will not soon forget.
Marcos Carvalho - 3 weeks ago
The architectural crown jewel of Rio de Janeiro.
Nothing comes close to compare to the opulence and magnificence of the Theatro Municipal!
Indubitably one of the most gorgeous opera houses in the world, matched only by places like the Palais Garnier in Paris, or Bayreuth in Germany.
I V - 4 months ago
Beautiful building, extraordinary staircase, Barbara the guide is very talented and friendly
Zana Suran - 4 months ago
One of my best nights in Rio. Fantastic ! Schumann music is top !!
Ben Velasco - 5 months ago
Beautiful ballet experience. It was my first time and it was really fun and an amazing experience!
Would recommend everyone visiting Rio to go to this place, enjoy the beautiful building and also experience the Ballet!
Dhyey Mishra - 11 months ago
Directions
| Metro Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Line 1 - Orange or Line 2 - Green | Cinelândia | 2 Minutes |
How to get to Municipal Theatre | Teatro Municipal by Metro
Exit Cinelândia Station and you will see the Municipal Theatre straight ahead to the north.
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Photo Gallery
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Municipal Theatre at dusk cc licensed photo by Anizio Silva -
Spectacular ornate ceiling inside Teatro Municipal cc licensed photo by Alex Carvalho -
Opulent staircases and balconies inside the Municipal Theatre in Rio cc licensed photo by Alex Carvalho
