- Type
- History and culture
- Area
- Downtown and Lapa
- Requires a hike or uphill walk
- No
The Royal Portuguese Reading Room (Real Gabinete Português de Leitura) is a Portuguese-language library and cultural institution at Rua Luís de Camões, 30, in downtown Rio, according to Wikipedia. The building is listed by the State Institute of Cultural Heritage. The reading room, with wooden shelves up to the ceiling, a chandelier and a stained-glass skylight, is among the most photographed interiors in the city.
How to visit
- Enter quietly: it is a working library.
- Photos are usually allowed without flash, but follow the staff’s instructions.
- Opening hours and visiting rules were not checked for this guide: consult the official website before you go.
Getting there
It is near Praça Tiradentes and Largo de São Francisco. Carioca and Uruguaiana metro stations are a few minutes’ walk away.
See the route in historic downtown on foot.
Practical tips
- Keep quiet: it is a working library.
- Take photos without flash.
- Check opening hours on the official website.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Royal Portuguese Reading Room?
At Rua Luís de Camões, 30, in downtown Rio, near Praça Tiradentes.
Can I take photos at the Real Gabinete?
Generally yes, without flash and respecting the readers. Follow the staff's instructions on site.
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