Overview of Petropolis, the Imperial City located in Rio state
Pedro II, the second and last monarch of the Empire of Brazil, reigning for 58 years from 1825 to 1891, loved the mild climate of Petrópolis, a city located 68 km from the city of Rio de Janeiro, at the top of the Serra da Estrela. He loved so much that he ordered a palace to be built there as the summer residence of the imperial family. Hence the name given to the city, the words Petro (Peter) and Polis (City).
Since then, the region gained notoriety and went on to develop infrastructure to receive heads of State, ministers and nobles. Considered a must-see tourist attraction in the city, the Imperial Palace was transformed into the rich Museu Imperial. Nowadays, the city is one of the favourite refuges spots of cariocas – the name given to those who are born in Rio.
You can’t leave the city center without first visiting the Palácio Rio Negro, dedicated to the memory of the Republic in the old imperial city, and the Palácio de Cristal, where the last slaves of Petrópolis were released. The latter is currently the site of cultural events and exhibitions.
Another high point of Petrópolis is the Saint Peter de Alcântara Cathedral that houses a mausoleum containing the remains of D. Pedro II and Dona Teresa Cristina. Add to your visit the Museu Casa de Santos Dumont, an attraction dedicated to the history of aviation, and the guided tour through the Centro de Experiência Cervejeira.
The districts of Petrópolis have workshops for artists, antiquaries and art shops. Beautiful and luxurious guesthouses await you, to enjoy the city’s Cultural Heritage and the exuberant nature of the Mata Atlântica. According to the 2022 Brazilian census, Petrópolis had a population of 278,881 inhabitants. Besides being the largest and most populous city in Rio’s state mountain region, the city also has the largest GDP and HDI in the region.
FAQ – Petrópolis: The Imperial City in Rio State
Q1: What is Petrópolis known for?
Petrópolis is famous for its royal history, stunning palaces, and the summer residence of Emperor Pedro II. The city is home to several historical landmarks, including the Museu Imperial and the Saint Peter de Alcântara Cathedral.
Q2: What attractions should I visit in Petrópolis?
Must-visit attractions include the Museu Imperial, Palácio Rio Negro, Palácio de Cristal, and Saint Peter de Alcântara Cathedral, which houses the mausoleum of D. Pedro II and Dona Teresa Cristina. Also, don’t miss the Museu Casa de Santos Dumont, dedicated to aviation history, and the Centro de Experiência Cervejeira for beer tasting.
Saint Peter de Alcântara Cathedral that nowadays is the Museu Imperial
Q3: Why is Petrópolis called the Imperial City?
Petrópolis is known as the Imperial City because it was the summer residence of Brazil’s Emperor Pedro II. The city was named after him, combining “Pedro” (Peter) and “Polis” (City).
Q4: What can I do in the city center of Petrópolis?
In the city center, you can visit important historical sites such as the Museu Imperial, Palácio Rio Negro, and Palácio de Cristal, as well as enjoy cultural events at the Palácio de Cristal and stroll through local art workshops and antique shops.
Q5: What are the cultural highlights of Petrópolis?
Petrópolis is rich in cultural heritage, offering a mix of art, history, and nature. Highlights include the Museu Imperial, historical churches, cultural events at the Palácio de Cristal, and workshops for artists, along with a variety of guesthouses that reflect the city’s charm.
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