The Imperial Museum occupies the former summer residence of Brazil’s Emperor Pedro II in the historic center of Petropolis, a mountain town about 70 km from Rio de Janeiro. It is one of Brazil’s most visited museums, drawing roughly 300,000 visitors a year.
Highlights include the imperial crown, set with 639 diamonds and 77 pearls, and the ruby-tipped gold pen used to sign the 1888 Lei Aurea abolishing slavery in Brazil. Photography is not permitted inside the galleries.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday. Felt slippers are handed out at the entrance to protect the original wood floors, and a visit comfortably takes about two hours.
