Unique Things To See In Petrópolis

An Overview of Petrópolis

Located in the green mountains north of Rio de Janeiro, Petrópolis is known as the imperial city, where much of Brazil’s heritage is preserved. The city is home to forested mountains, distant waterfalls, historical palaces and unique cultural institutions. Interesting attractions include numerous museums and relics of the city’s founder, Emperor Dom Pedro II. With features such as the Imperial Museum, the huge São Pedro de Alcântara Cathedral and mountain retreats, there are many unique things to see in Petrópolis.

An impressive white mansion with a gray roof in Petrópolis Brazil

Unique Things To See In Petrópolis


Quitandinha Lake 

This is a scenic and extremely well-maintained lake with water birds and gardens surrounding the grounds. The lake exists in front of Quitandinha Palace, serving as a popular backdrop for the landmark.

Quitandinha Palace 

Serving as the most iconic building of Petrópolis, this is an ornate mansion with an artistic-museum interior. The palace was once used as a popular mountain resort for the wealthy citizens of Brazil.

Stone Quitandinha 

This is a large, round-topped brown mountain overlooking Petrópolis. It’s home to several hiking trails and overlook points.

Praca da Liberdade (Liberty Square) 

This is a small, relaxing park located in Central Petrópolis.  It’s home to several playgrounds, a number of small canals, a large greenspace and a wealth of museums.

Cathedral Sao Pedro de Alcantara 

This is an extremely tall and scenic cathedral located at the end of a canal just outside of Central Petrópolis.

Crystal Palace

The Crystal Palace is a beautiful glass house and garden area with numerous cultivated flowers nearby.

Santos Dumont’s House 

The unique cliffside home of the famed inventor Santos Dumont. The building is lined with strangely-angled stairways, invention diagrams, observation posts and quotes pulled from the inventor’s admirers, his father and his notes.


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