The Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading
The Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading in Rio de Janeiro, founded in 1837, is a historic library renowned for its architectural beauty and vast collection of over 350,000 volumes. Inaugurated in 1887, it features a neo-Manueline facade inspired by Lisbon's Jerónimos Monastery. Home to rare manuscripts and significant works like "Os Lusíadas," it serves as a cultural hub, promoting Portuguese heritage through exhibitions and events, bridging the past and present. #PortugueseCulture #RioDeJaneiro #HistoricLibrary #LiteraryHeritage #CulturalHub The Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading, known as the Real Gabinete Português de Leitura, is a stunning and historically significant library situated in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This institution, founded in 1837 by a group of forty-three Portuguese immigrants, is famous not only for its vast collection of works but also for its architectural grandeur. The library was inaugurated in 1887, the same year of the centenary of D. Pedro IV of Portugal's death, which is a testament to its deep-rooted ties to Portuguese culture and history. The Cabinet's facade, inspired by the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, is a sight to behold. Designed by the architect Rafael da Silva e Castro, it showcases a neo-Manueline style characterized by intricate carvings, ornate windows, and symbolic decorations that take visitors back to the Age of Discoveries. Inside, the library boasts a breathtaking interior with walls lined from floor to ceiling with more than 350,000 volumes, many of which date back to the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. The stained-glass skylight floods the room with natural light, highlighting the rich wooden shelves and the elaborate ironwork that supports the structure. Among its treasures is the first edition of the epic poem "Os Lusíadas" by Luís de Camões, a cornerstone of Portuguese literature. The Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading also houses rare manuscripts, maps, and singular documents that are invaluable to scholars and history enthusiasts. In addition to its role as a guardian of literary and historical heritage, the library serves as a cultural hub. It regularly hosts exhibitions, book launches, and lectures, promoting Portuguese language and culture in Brazil. The Cabinet's contribution to the cultural landscape of Rio de Janeiro, and indeed Brazil, is immeasurable, providing a bridge between the past and the present, and fostering a deep appreciation for the richness of Portuguese literary traditions. A visit to this remarkable library is not just a visual delight; it is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Portuguese heritage that continues to influence Brazilian culture to this day.