Published on Jun, 2024

Had the joy of super-knowledgeable and fluently tri-lingual Alberto [Cardoza?] as my historian tour guide. Listened to my questions as thoroughly as he had provided curiosities and brings to life the Rio of four centuries ago (seeing it conjured beyond the Modernist high-rises) and immerses one in Brazil's Colonial past. My favorite part is after he entreated me to lie on the floor of the central aisle of the 1721 Igreja S.Francisco de Penitência's nave to experience the Only way to truly appreciate the trompe l'oeil vaulted ceiling painting!!! Amazingly GORGEOUS Baroque & Roccoco. I learned so much about the tumultuous 19th century intrigues during Napoleonic times (Neo Classical architecture) among Portuguese royalty and the banking and customs and the nouveau riche of Brazil. I even learned where Brazil gets its name. No spoilers. Don't expect much on the Art Deco period however... there seems to be little of it. The Belle Epoque Beaux Arts dominates.

Published on Feb, 2023

The tour was a great way to see a few of the most striking architecture and significant buildings in Rio and to learn about the city’s history. Monica, our guide, was knowledgeable, personable and helpful. She customized the tour based on our interests to include an exhibit of handicrafts from different regions of Brazil and even helped find a great restaurant nearby to have lunch at after the tour. Highly recommend!

Published on Dec, 2022

Monica was very knowledgeable and provided a lot of background information to the sites visited. Thoroughly enjoyed the day.

Published on Apr, 2022

An amazing way to learn about the city, its culture, history and art. A must for anyone interested in architecture. It was a beautiful experience to learn about different times of the city, its architectural developments as well as possibility to see the city in action. To see people engaging in their hobbies was a great way to learn about Rio.