The Rio Museum of Art, or MAR, sits on Praça Mauá in central Rio de Janeiro, in two contrasting buildings joined by a sweeping roof. Its exhibitions range from contemporary work to historical art, with a strong focus on Rio, Brazilian culture and social themes. Take the elevator to the top floor for views across the bay, then work your way through the galleries. Interactive displays and clear exhibition texts add context, and there is a restaurant on site.
Two buildings under one roof
MAR occupies two contrasting buildings at Praça Mauá: a historic mansion and a modernist structure that houses the School of the Vision. A single undulating roof connects them, giving the museum a recognisable outline above the square. The project brings together buildings with different architectural styles rather than treating them as separate sites.
The museum opened in 2013. Its educational approach links art, history and learning through the School of the Vision. The two-building layout is part of that idea: the galleries and the arts school share one complex.
Art focused on Rio and Brazil
Exhibitions cover contemporary, traditional and historical art, with many showing Brazilian work and subjects connected to Rio. The programme also includes international art. Across the galleries, you may encounter sculpture, photography and interactive displays; exhibition themes address social and cultural issues as well as the city’s history and people.
The range changes, so the works on view depend on the exhibitions running during your visit. Descriptions accompany the displays, and interactive elements give visitors another way to engage with the material. MAR also holds cultural events, workshops and educational activities.
A view over Praça Mauá and the bay
A useful way to begin is to take the elevator to the top floor and look out over the bay. From there, make your way down through the galleries. This route pairs the city view with the exhibitions and helps you see how the museum’s spaces connect.
There is a restaurant on the upper floor, so you can add a meal to a gallery visit. MAR is close to the Museum of Tomorrow, around 300 metres away, making it possible to visit both around Praça Mauá.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is the Rio Museum of Art?
MAR is at Praça Mauá, 5, in the Saúde area of central Rio de Janeiro.
What can you see at MAR?
The museum presents Brazilian, Rio-focused and international art, including contemporary, historical and traditional exhibitions. Displays can include sculpture, photography and interactive work.
Is there a restaurant at the Rio Museum of Art?
Yes. The museum has a restaurant on its upper floor.
