National Library of Brazil
The magnificent National Library of Brazil in Rio de Janeiro is the largest library in Latin America and the 7th largest in the world
For those of you who love to read and who love seeing historical buildings you absolutely have to take a trip down to the National Library of Brazil. This library is the largest library in Latin America and the 7th largest library in the world with a collection of roughly 9,000,000 items. Situated in Rio de Janeiro, this magnificent building is a treasure chest of manuscripts, books, lithographs, cartographic material, photographs, coins and medals.
There seem to be two versions as to why the library was brought to Brazil. In one version of the story it is stated that in 1755 Portugal suffered a massive earthquake which led to a lot of damage to the existing infrastructure of the Royal Library. In a bid to save the prized documentation of the Royal family the library was moved to Brazil in three phases which started in 1810. Initially, it was the upstairs rooms of the Hospital of the Third Order of the Carmel located close to the Palace Imperial that was used. But because these were not considered the best location for this valuable library, Prince Regent issued a decree for funds to be provided from the royal treasury in order to build the royal library.
In the other version of the story, the Royal family brought the books from Portugal with them as they exiled themselves to Brazil days before Napoleonic troops invaded Portugal in 1807. This was their way of protecting their royal documentation and other items of interest. It is stated that the National Library was moved three times before the go ahead was given and the National Library of Brazil, then called the Portuguese Royal Library, was built. At the time of its establishment it had over 60,000 books, manuscripts and other items. Over the years the collection grew as other items of interest were collected and added to its vaults.
In its early years it is said that the library was only open to special scholars. They needed to get permission in order to access materials. Later in 1814 it was opened to the general public but the general public did not have a great interest in the library due to having only basic literacy so its aisles were frequented by the educated elite of Brazil.
Pay a visit to the National Library of Brazil, take some time to browse through the amazing collection and satisfy your curiosity on almost any topic while surrounded by the splendour of its architecture.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoNational Library of Brazil Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
Address: Av. Rio Branco, 219 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20040-008, Brazil
Phone: (21) 2220-9608
Official Website: National Library of Brazil
National Library of Brazil Reviews
Rated out of 5
Everybody rushes to Real Gabinete, few comes to here. Both free, but here you see better exhibitions, relax on the balcony overlooking Cinelandia plaza with the ornate 19th century buildings, etc. More bang for your buck in terms of the time spent. And when the National Museum of Fine Arts reopens, you just need to walk next door to visit it.
L L - 2 weeks ago
Well maintained, attractive building with an impressive main hall and public staircase.
Interesting small exhibition of historic and recent paintings of local nature, which proved an unexpected bonus. Very pleasant staff. Free. Security scanners on entry.
Sarah Williams - 3 months ago
Really beautiful library although, I think the Portuguese Library is better. You can't really walk thru the halls of books here just the outside. You have to have a "legit" reason to be where the books are. You're mostly on the doorways and entrances. Probably because they archive EVERY single thing that is printed in Brazil...ever! Well, that's what the guide said. They have over 12 million items and get more everyday. Architecture is awesome and they made some really interesting design choices since the building was built during a time when electricity wasn't widely available.
Steve J. - a year ago
Gorgeous interior & amazing designs of each part! Unfortunately selfie people are busy with selfish and Ego & they don’t pay attention to the beauty of the building!
Zana Suran - 10 months ago
Beautiful building and it’s free to walk around and visit. Shame that only 2 of the 4 floors are open to the public - and even then, all of the side rooms that contain the archives are
closed off to the public. Descriptions of the limited exhibits that are accessible are only in Portuguese :(
R F - 7 years ago
Directions
| Metro Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Line 1 - Orange or Line 2 - Green | Cinelândia | 1 Minute |
How to get to National Library of Brazil by Metro
National Library of Brazil is located immediately east of the exit from Cinelândia Station.
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Accommodations near National Library of Brazil:
Photo Gallery
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Exterior of the National Library of Rio cc licensed photo by Luiz Fernando Reis -
Staircase inside Biblioteca Nacional do Rio de Janeiro cc licensed photo by Rodrigo Soldon -
Ornate interior of the National LIbrary in Rio cc licensed photo by Rodrigo Soldon -
Photo Credit: RIO Flats -
Photo Credit: Sandro Fonseca -
Photo Credit: Marcelo Souza -
Photo Credit: José E. Anderson -
Photo Credit: Arthur de Sá Braz de Matos
