The National History Museum of Brazil was opened in Rio de Janeiro in 1922 by presidential decree. It became world famous in 1940. The museum is located in the Santiago Forte architectural complex. The museum covers an area of about 20,000 square metres. The opening of the National History Museum was the impetus for the formation and opening of museums throughout Brazil. The architectural complex itself, which now houses the museum, was built in 1603. It first housed a prison and later an armoury.
The museum now owns over 287,000 items of great value relating to Latin American history. The museum library contains about 57,000 books, many of which have been preserved here since the 15th century, more than 50,000 historical documents and photographs. A large part is occupied by everyday objects, weapons, paintings, and jewellery..
In 75 years of continuous activity, the museum has amassed the largest numismatic collection in Latin America. Nowadays, the National History Museum is protected by the Brazilian Ministry of Culture and is an important cultural centre.
Every day, the National History Museum is visited by hundreds of tourists and fans of Latin American history from all over the world.
The National History Museum is a major cultural centre.
