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Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading
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Historical site
Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading is a remarkable feature of the geography and culture of Brazil. A memorable historic library in Rio de Janeiro that houses the largest collection of Portuguese literature outside of Portugal. Founded in 1837. Neo-Manueline architecture. Over 350,000 volumes. This site holds particular significance in the history of Brazil, from the Portuguese colonial era to the modern republic. Like many notable places in Brazil, it combines regional character with the wider significance of the world's fifth-largest country. Thus, this place contributes to the diverse profile of Brazil, where tropical nature, Portuguese heritage, samba, football, and Carnival come together.
- Location: Brazil
- Top sights: Museu Histórico e Diplomático do Itamaraty · Museu da Polícia Civil · Real Gabinete Português de Leitura
- Nearby: Niterói (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 22 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 208 | 152 | 173 | 101 | 71 | 49 | 45 | 42 | 69 | 108 | 220 | 232 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The library is open to the public, though with limited visiting hours for tourists. The magnificent reading room can only be entered under supervision.
Typical hours
Opening hours are typically Monday to Friday 9 AM to 6 PM, Saturday until 2 PM. Sundays and holidays the library is closed.
Photography
Photography without flash is allowed in the reading room, but not of books or staff. The neo-Gothic wood paneling and stained glass windows are memorable.
Time needed
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for visiting the public area. Literature lovers can easily spend an hour in the intoxicating atmosphere.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a walk through the adjacent Rio city center. The Teatro Municipal and Arcos da Lapa are within walking distance.
Getting there
The library is at Rua Luís de Camões 30 in downtown Rio. By metro, get off at Carioca station, then a five-minute walk.
Insider tip
Visit the library in the morning when light filters through the stained glass. Ask at the reception for a short guided tour of the reading room.
Geography
Facts
- A stunning historic library in Rio de Janeiro that houses the largest collection of Portuguese literature outside of Portugal.
- Located within the Federative Republic of Brazil.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading (14)
Real Gabinete Português de Leitura🏛 museum
A magnificent Neo-Manueline library housing the largest collection of Portuguese works outside Portugal.
🌐 realgabinete.com.br🕒 Mo-Fr 09:00-18:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you borrow books from the Real Gabinete?
No, the books are part of a historical collection and can only be consulted on-site.
Is there an entry fee for the library?
Entrance is free for the general public.
What are the visiting hours?
Usually open from Monday to Friday, between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
Why is this place so famous?
It is considered one of the most beautiful libraries in the world due to its remarkable neo-Manueline architecture.
Are you allowed to take photos there?
Yes, photography without flash is allowed, but you must remain very quiet.
Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading: where is it located?
Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading is located in Brazil.
Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museu Histórico e Diplomático do Itamaraty, Museu da Polícia Civil, Real Gabinete Português de Leitura.
Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading: why is it worth visiting?
Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading is a remarkable feature of the geography and culture of Brazil.
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