Royal Portuguese Reading Room
The interior of the historic Royal Portuguese Reading Room is nothing short of awe inspiring
Located in downtown Rio, amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, lies the Real Gabinete Portugues da Leitura or Royal Portuguese Reading Room in English. The Real Gabinete Portugues da Leitura or is a beautiful library built in the Portuguese manueline style back in 1837.
It is said that books fill the walls from top to bottom in precious and beautiful carved wood bookshelves. There are those who make comparisons with Hogsworth college (those of you who have watched the Harry Potter series would know exactly what they are talking about). For those who have not seen any shots of the inside of Hogsworth, let's just say that the place is absolutely magical.
The library houses over 350,000 works, many of those works dating from the 16th, 17th and 18th century. These works contain an incredible amount of Portuguese history and culture. The Real Gabinete Prtugues da Lietura also features a variety of small collections of paintings, sculptures and ancient coins.
It is recommended when visiting the library you make certain that you go with a group of people or at least one other person as the library is situated in an older part of downtown of Rio de Janiero and like many large cities, you will find a number of beggars and vendors who can sometimes be on the aggressive side. See the video at the bottom of our Transit Tips page for some great advice on being safe while exploring Rio.
The other attractions in the area are the National LIbrary of Brazil and the Municipal Theatre. Both are definitely worth a visit.
For an afternoon of wonder in a world of literature and amazing architecture, visit the Real Gabinete Portugues da Leitura. Don't forget to bring your identity document along to ensure access!
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoRoyal Portuguese Reading Room Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
Address: R. Luís de Camões, 30 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20051-020, Brazil
Phone: (21) 2221-3138
Official Website: Royal Portuguese Reading Room
Royal Portuguese Reading Room Reviews
Rated out of 5
The place is iconic and is worthy the visit. One of the most beautiful libraries I have ever been. Because is in the centre of Rio is safer to go by Uber. The staff could be more friendly but the woman working there just look unhappy. But we can’t do anything with those unhappy people. I highly recommend this stunning place.
Thiers - a month ago
Wow ive seen some amazing libraries on the world...vienna, lisbon..but this takes the cake and it's FREE. Supposedly no photos but everyone taking. Near Uruguaiana Market, downtown Rio near pedestrian street.
dave travels - 2 weeks ago
What a delight it was to visit this reading room. It does not appear to be a functioning library but as a tourist attraction serves to remind of the role of printed literature in a previous period. The audacity of the presentation of the books within this amazing building with stained glass features points to a time when the book was the key to an informed and learned society.
David McLeod - 4 weeks ago
If you haven't yet had the chance to visit this library, I highly recommend making it a priority during your time in Rio. This incredible place is truly a sight to behold, with a soaring ceiling and an endless sea of vibrantly colored books that surround you. It's nothing short of amazing!
However, I must caution that the area in which the library is located can be a bit rough. While I wouldn't discourage anyone from visiting, it's essential to exercise extra caution and be aware of your surroundings.
All things considered, the library is an absolute must-visit for book lovers and anyone who appreciates stunning architecture and design. If you have the opportunity to see it in person, I cannot recommend it highly enough.
Kimberly Pham - a year ago
Quite literally the most beautiful library I’ve ever seen in my life. From the way the books are stacked to the intricate little designs of the shelves and the glasswork on the ceiling, this library is a stunner. 10/10 would recommend visiting
Chardonnay Francis - a year ago
Directions
| Metro Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Line 1 - Orange or LIne2 - Green | Uruguaiana |
How to get to Royal Portuguese Reading Room by Metro
Exit Uruguaiana Station onto Rua Uruguaiana and go right. Go right again onto Rua do Ouvidor and follow it to the plaza. Continue west along Rua Luis de Camoes, the road that borders the right side of the plaza and watch for the Real Gabinete Português de Leitura on your right.
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Photo Gallery
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Facade and entrance to the Royal Portuguese Reading Room in Rio de Janeiro cc licensed photo by Wikimapa -
cc licensed photo by Os Rúpias -
Library inside the Real Gabinete Português de Leitura cc licensed photo by Os Rúpias
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