The Municipal Theater in Rio is the main theater of the city, located near the city center. During the second half of the 19th century, theatrical activities in Rio de Janeiro intensified. The problem, however, was that the city did not have an adequate performance hall at the time. At that time, there were only two smaller theaters in Rio, the San Pedro Theater and the Lyric Theater. The given theaters could not satisfy the needs of a multi-million city like Rio.
After the declaration of independence of Brazil, a campaign was launched to build a new theater that would be representative and suitable for the city. Although funds were raised relatively quickly for the entire project, they were never invested in the construction of the theater. The theater was later built in 1909. It consists of a beautiful exterior facade as well as an amazing interior. With a capacity of 2.200 seats, the theater is the main theater house in Brazil.
Its architecture is rich in details and combines different styles - baroque and art nouveau. One of the details that you will certainly not miss to see is the enormous eagle, weighing 350 kg. When you enter the theater, you will be delighted by the interior decor as well as the huge chandelier made of gold and bronze.
You can visit the theater in two ways. By looking at the repertoire and buying a ticket for one of the operas, ballets or concerts that take place in the theater, or to visit the theater with a guide, while it is empty, i.e. when the performances are not held.
Ticket price for a visit to the theater with a guide
Regular ticket price: 20 BRL
Working hours (with a guide)
Tuesday to Friday: 11am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm
Saturdays and public holidays: 11am, 12pm and 1pm
Ticket sales begin 30 minutes before each visit. Tickets can only be purchased at the box office.
Photo credit: Mauro Lima
