Palacio do Catete / Museu da Republica, Rio de Janeiro

Located in the Catete neighborhood, this palace is another of Rio's fine examples of Neoclassical architecture. Built in the middle of the 19th century, it was the seat of power in Brazil from 1897 until 1960, when Brasilia became the country's capital. Today it hosts the Museu da República and a theater, as well as extensive gardens that are open to the public.

Various historical events happened in the palace halls, such as the death of President Afonso Pena in 1909; the signing of the declaration of war against the German Empire and its allies in 1917, during World War I; the visit and hosting of Cardinal Eugenio Pacelli, the future Pope Pius XII, in 1934; the declaration of war against the Axis in World War II in 1942; the suicide of President Getúlio Vargas in 1954, with a shot in the heart, in his bedroom on the third floor of the palace; among others.

Why You Should Visit:
Great for a picnic, a museum visit, or both. Beautifully designed by a German architect, the palace holds almost all of its original features.
The gardens are large, with beautiful imperial palms providing very welcome shade, and even a playground for kids to have fun.