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Centro (Historic Center)

4.7
·3k reviews·, Brazil

Step back into Manaus's opulent rubber boom era at this restored 19th-century estate, featuring period decor and gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Palácio Rio Negro

Centro (Historic Center)

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back into Manaus's opulent rubber boom era at this restored 19th-century estate, featuring period decor and gardens.

4.7
(3k reviews)

"Old, beautiful and preserved place. It reminded me of old family houses with stories and covered terraces."

Vertical photo
TIP

✅ Free Entry & Sign-in

Admission is free! Just sign the guest list with your name and origin upon arrival. :admission_tickets:

🚶‍♂️ Quick Exploration

You can see the main exhibits in about 20 minutes, but linger longer for photos and relaxation. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Staircase

Grand Staircase

A magnificent double-sided staircase greets you upon entry, setting a tone of historical grandeur.

Period Rooms

Period Rooms

Wander through rooms adorned with original furniture, transporting you to the opulent days of the rubber boom.

Garden View Balcony

Garden View Balcony

Relax on the upper floor's porch with couches, offering a serene view of the bucolic garden.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the History

Step back in time at this beautifully restored 19th-century estate. Explore period decor and learn about the rubber baron era. It's a free visit, but signing in is required.

Quick Visit, Lasting Impression

While the palace itself can be explored in about 20 minutes, allow extra time for the gardens and soaking in the atmosphere. It's a peaceful escape from the city bustle.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Enjoy the garden's shade
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

I am visiting Manaus in August, tell me what I need to know!

✅ Free Entry & Sign-in

Admission is free! Just sign the guest list with your name and origin upon arrival. :admission_tickets:

🚶‍♂️ Quick Exploration

You can see the main exhibits in about 20 minutes, but linger longer for photos and relaxation. :camerawithflash:

reddit.com

Best way to see the Amazon from Manaus

reddit.com

Ecotourism in Manaus? Which tour is best? tips please

🌳 Garden Serenity

Don't miss the peaceful garden. The upper balcony offers a lovely spot to rest and enjoy the view. :evergreen_tree:

reddit.com

Solo Female Traveler Manaus

Tips

from all over the internet

✅ Free Entry & Sign-in

Admission is free! Just sign the guest list with your name and origin upon arrival. :admission_tickets:

🚶‍♂️ Quick Exploration

You can see the main exhibits in about 20 minutes, but linger longer for photos and relaxation. :camerawithflash:

🌳 Garden Serenity

Don't miss the peaceful garden. The upper balcony offers a lovely spot to rest and enjoy the view. :evergreen_tree:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Centro (Historic Center) for its beautiful restoration and free admission, offering a glimpse into Manaus's opulent rubber boom era. The preserved period decor and serene garden are highlights, though some note the visit can be quite brief.

"Old, beautiful and preserved place. It reminded me of old family houses with stories and covered terraces on each floor, children running from one side to the other and a calm, ventilated and welcoming atmosphere. I don't know what events marked this place, but its foundations seem to be solid, resisting time."

Iago Santos

"​​The former seat of government and residence for the governor of the state of Amazonas. It was built by Karl Waldermar Scholz, a German “Rubber Baron”, who mortgaged the house after the “Rubber Boom” ended and WWI began.

It is a free place to visit and there's a lot of open rooms"

James

"Free tour, you only need to sign in to the 'guest list' after entering the building (name, surname and country / city of origin).

In the building there are several rooms with original furniture, some information about the history of Manaus governors, the history of the radio, a balcony with a possibility of rest and a garden.

Sightseeing in the form of a walk, without intensive reading of information - up to 20 minutes.

(Review from November 2022, but reappeared as new after removing some photos)"

Vanalai

What People Like

Beautifully preserved history
Free admission
Serene garden views

What People Dislike

Can be a short visit

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Centro is easily accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services from most parts of Manaus. Local buses also serve the area, though they can be crowded. It's a central location, so many visitors find it convenient to reach.

Street parking can be challenging in the historic center due to its popularity and narrow streets. It's often recommended to use ride-sharing services or taxis for easier access.

Yes, the Historic Center is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking to see the various buildings and attractions.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Centro (Historic Center), particularly the former governor's palace, is free to enter. You'll just need to sign a guest book upon arrival. Reddit

The specific hours can vary, but generally, the main attractions within the Historic Center are open during daylight hours. It's best to check locally for the most up-to-date information.

No advance booking is required as entry is free. Simply arrive and sign in at the entrance. Reddit

While there isn't always a formal tour, the free entry allows you to explore at your own pace. Some visitors have mentioned enjoying the self-guided experience and imagining the history. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The grand double staircase upon entry is a must-capture. The period rooms with their original furniture and the garden balcony also offer beautiful photographic opportunities. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Historic Center, allowing you to capture the preserved beauty and historical ambiance. Reddit

Morning light can be softer and less crowded, making it ideal for capturing the architectural details. The afternoon light can also be lovely, especially in the garden.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Centro (Historic Center) offers a gentle introduction to history for families. While not a playground, the spacious rooms and the beautiful garden provide areas for children to move around and explore. The visual appeal of the old furniture and the grand staircase can capture their imagination. Reddit

Keep the visit relatively short, focusing on the most engaging aspects like the staircase and the garden. It's a free activity, making it a budget-friendly option for families looking for a cultural experience without a hefty price tag. Pack some snacks and water, as amenities within the palace are limited.

🚶 Solo Travelers

The Centro (Historic Center) is an excellent destination for solo travelers, offering a safe and enriching experience. The free entry and self-guided nature allow you to explore at your own pace, immersing yourself in the history without feeling rushed. Reddit

It's a place where you can easily spend 20-30 minutes absorbing the atmosphere, or linger longer on the garden balcony. The simplicity of the visit – just signing in and exploring – makes it hassle-free. It's also a great spot to practice your photography skills and capture the architectural beauty of Manaus's past. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into the Rubber Boom Era

The Centro (Historic Center) of Manaus is a testament to the city's opulent past, particularly during the Amazon rubber boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This grand estate, once the residence of a German 'Rubber Baron' named Karl Waldermar Scholz, showcases the wealth and architectural style of that era. After the boom's end and the onset of WWI, the property faced financial difficulties, eventually transitioning to its current role as a historical site. Reddit

Visitors can explore rooms furnished with original period decor, offering a tangible connection to the lives of the wealthy elite. The well-preserved state of the palace allows for an immersive experience, where one can almost hear the echoes of the past. The free admission makes it an accessible way to understand Manaus's unique history and its connection to global trade during that period. Reddit

Beyond the interiors, the estate boasts a bucolic garden and a charming balcony, providing a tranquil space to reflect on the history. It's a place where the grandeur of the past meets the serenity of nature, offering a well-rounded visit for history buffs and those seeking a peaceful moment.

Exploring the Palace and Gardens

Upon entering the Centro (Historic Center), visitors are immediately struck by the magnificent double-sided staircase, a grand architectural feature that sets the tone for the entire visit. The palace itself is filled with rooms that have been meticulously preserved, showcasing original furniture and historical exhibits that detail the lives of past governors and the history of radio in the region. Reddit

The experience is often described as a walk through time, with the well-maintained interiors allowing visitors to vividly imagine the glorious days when the palace was at its peak. The layout encourages a leisurely exploration, with open rooms and ample space to appreciate the craftsmanship and historical significance of each area. Reddit

Upstairs, a balcony with comfortable seating offers a welcome respite, providing a picturesque view of the surrounding garden. This area is perfect for a moment of quiet contemplation, enjoying the fresh air and the serene atmosphere. The garden itself is a lovely addition, offering a green oasis that complements the historical architecture.

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