Top Historical Places in Rio De Janeiro

Are you looking to explore the history of Rio De Janeiro through the ages? There are a number of historical destinations in Rio De Janeiro including the time-honored buildings, monuments, palaces, and parks where you can learn about the glorious past of Rio De Janeiro. The presence of these historical sites and museums will take you on a walk through Rio De Janeiro ‘s rich history.
If you are willing to have an in-depth historical information about Rio De Janeiro, we recommend that you take a wonderful guided tour to cover the major historical attractions. Also, check the opening and closing time for each so that you can organize your time. Make sure that you go through the complete list of historical places in Rio De Janeiro for a great trip!

Let's witness the history of Rio De Janeiro with these top historical places - monuments and landmarks:

  1. Cristo Redentor On Corcovado

    4.8 (2967 Votes)
    Cristo Redentor On Corcovado

    Outdoors, Landmark, View Point, Walking Area

    When you think of Brazil, Christ the redeemer is the first thing that comes to mind. The most identifiable structure in Brazil and South America for that matter, the enormous statue of Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado Mountain is something of a national landmark. The location attracts three hundred thousand tourists on an annual basis and this is just a small indication of the significance o...Read more
  2. Rio De Janeiro Cathedral

    4.6 (774 Votes)
    Rio De Janeiro Cathedral

    Religious Site, Historical Site, Cathedral

    The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian is best known for being the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Sao Sebastiao do Rio de Janeiro. Built between 1964 and 1979, the church is extremely well known for its unusual construction. The designers utilized extremely modernistic influences when constructing the cathedral. Shaped in a conical manner, there are rectangular stained glass w...Read more
  3. Old Cathedral

    4.7 (470 Votes)
    Old Cathedral

    Religious Site, Historical Site, Architecture , Cathedral

    Locally known as Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte do Carmo da antiga Se, this Carmelite church located in downtown Rio is one of the most historically important buildings in the city. The construction of the church took over two decades between 1761 and 1785 and has since witnessed numerous important historical occurrings within the walls. A striking example of Rococo architecture, this cathedr...Read more
  4. Candelaria Church

    4.7 (315 Votes)
    Candelaria Church

    Church, Religious Site, Historical Site, Architecture

    The Candelaria Church can be considered to be one of the most historically important churches in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The church took quite a while to build with construction commencing in 1775 and ending in 1811. This architecture of the church is a culmination of different influences. The outer facade follows a Baroque style of architecture while the interiors are designed in neoclassi...Read more
  5. Cidade De Deus

    Historical Site

    Literally translated to City of God, this iconic area has been subject to a very violent past. It used to have has the largest concentrations of favelas in the city. A favela is something that is very unique to the culture of Brazil. It is a settlement that consisting of Shanties which were created to house slaves initially. This area used to be a centre for the drug trade and criminal activiti...Read more
  6. Petropolis

    Ancient Ruin, Historical Site, Palace, Neighborhoods

    Located about 70km from the city centre of Rio de Janeiro is Petropolis, also known as the Imperial City. The journey here takes about an hour and it is an ideal place for a day trip away from the fast pace of Rio city life. The history of the city is interesting as it was discovered and transformed into its current avatar by Emperor Pedro I who feel in love with the area on his visit in 1822. ...Read more
  7. Cinelandia

    4.4 (236 Votes)
    Cinelandia

    Landmark, Historical Site, Entertainment, Square

    The Cinelandia square is one of the most important areas of Rio. It is said that in the 1930s it was as much a hub of activity as the Times Square in New York. Today it is an area surrounded by several important historical buildings like The National Library, The City Chamber - Pedro Ernesto Palacy, Municipal Theatre and Museum of Fine Arts. The area was once lined with several buildings that h...Read more
  8. Pedra Do Sal

    4.5 (216 Votes)
    Pedra Do Sal

    Religious Site, Historical Site, Entertainment

    Pedra do Sal is a historical and religious site that holds a special place in the hearts of cariocas. It literally mean Rock of Salt and is the birthplace of Samba. The slogan of the place is “Aqui se respeita o samba” which translates as “Here we respect samba music”. Every Monday night the area comes alive with the Samba da roda, a huge street party dedicated to Samba....Read more
  9. Arcos Da Lapa

    Historical Site, Neighborhoods

    The Lapas neighborhood in Rio is the central location of the Carioca Aqueduct. The area has had a facelift in recent times to increase the beauty of the area. A hotspot for intellectuals and art lovers this area has attracted its fair share of foreign attention. There are numerous night clubs and bars in the vicinity in addition to galleries and exhibition spaces. The Lapa Aqueducts are an impr...Read more