Museum of the Acrean Peoples: A Cultural Jewel in Brazil’s Amazon
The Museum of the Acrean Peoples in Rio Branco, Brazil, opened in August 2023 to preserve and display the region’s rich history and culture with significant support from the World Bank. It features seven exhibition areas and notable exhibits such as a Purussaurus fossil and profiles of distinguished Acreans. The museum has drawn over 32,000 visitors and contributes to regional pride and educational development.
The Museum of the Acrean Peoples, established in August 2023 in Rio Branco, Brasil, preserves and showcases the rich cultural history of the remote state of Acre. Supported by the World Bank, the museum stands as a testament to the region’s unique past, including attractions such as an exquisitely preserved Purussaurus fossil.
Funded by the Acre Social and Economic Inclusion and Sustainable Development Project (ProAcre) with an investment of R$ 16 million (approximately USD 2.8 million), the museum was created from the renovation of an old school. It encompasses seven exhibition areas, an auditorium, a café, and a souvenir shop, all designed to foster sociocultural development and strengthen regional identity.
Among the museum’s noteworthy exhibits are the Chico Mendes Room and a recreated rubber tapper’s house. The Personalities Room displays profiles of notable Acreans, including musician João Donato and novelist Glória Perez, while an interactive room engages visitors with local slang through fun activities.
Historically, the building was constructed in 1952 by Italian friar André Morini Ficarelli as a boys’ boarding school. Following several years of use as the Fathers’ School, it transitioned to a secular school, which notably hosted influential figures such as the current Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Marina Silva.
Since its inauguration, the museum has attracted over 32,000 visitors, contributing to the appreciation for Acre’s indigenous and immigrant histories. Its location in the vibrant center of Rio Branco, by the Branco River, enhances its appeal, offering visitors scenic views of the city’s colorful architecture.
“ProAcre made this and other investments in properties representing the state’s cultural and historical heritage, strengthening the pride that Acreans have in their own origin, history, and culture,” states Fatima Amazonas, the World Bank project manager.
Former student Aline Albuquerque expressed her joy on visiting the museum, reminiscing about her school days, “I am very happy that this space is being well utilized.”
To visit the museum, an online scheduling is required, accessible via: https://linktr.ee/MuseuDosPovosAcreanos.
The Museum of the Acrean Peoples serves as a cultural and historical hub for the state of Acre, reflecting its diverse heritage and fostering regional pride. With significant investments from the World Bank under the ProAcre project, the museum has transformed an abandoned school into a vibrant educational and tourist destination. The various exhibits highlight both the indigenous roots and immigrant experiences in Acre, enriching the cultural fabric of the region.
Original Source: www.worldbank.org
