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Museums

Sculpture Garden

4.8 · 1,662 reviews
A quiet place for artistic contemplation and nature walks
Sculpture Garden - São João dos Mellos, s/n - São João dos Mellos, Júlio de Castilhos - RS, 98130-000, Brazil
Interesting facts
1

The vast majority of the sculptures on display are carved from basalt, a volcanic rock abundant in the region.

2

The artist, Rogério Bertoldo, single-handedly created the majority of the works found throughout the park grounds.

3

The garden was specifically designed to allow the sculptures to weather naturally, changing their appearance with the seasons.

4

The project began as an personal artistic undertaking before expanding into an open-air museum accessible to the public.

Overview

The Jardim das Esculturas is an outdoor art museum located in the rural landscape of Júlio de Castilhos, Rio Grande do Sul. The site features over 400 stone sculptures carved primarily by local artist Rogério Bertoldo. These works are integrated into a natural park setting, featuring pathways through woods and gardens. The museum focuses on the intersection of monumental sculpture and the regional geological environment. Visitors navigate through various thematic sections containing abstract and figurative basalt carvings. The site was developed as a private project that evolved into a significant cultural landmark for the state of Rio Grande do Sul.

Photo spot

The main entrance trail where the density of basalt sculptures creates a dramatic tunnel-like perspective.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes as the terrain involves unpaved trails and natural soil paths.

Bring insect repellent as the park's wooded setting can attract mosquitoes during humid weather.

Check social media channels before departing, as the garden occasionally closes for maintenance or due to severe weather conditions.

What to avoid

Attempting to visit during heavy rainfall, as the park paths can become muddy and difficult to traverse.

Good to know

Closed on certain weekdays; check the official Instagram page for current weekly closure updates before visiting.

Etiquette

Maintain silence to respect the contemplative nature of the space; do not touch or climb on the sculptures to prevent erosion and accidents.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Autumn or Spring for mild temperatures and optimal lighting for photography against the stone surfaces.
Address
Sculpture Garden - São João dos Mellos, s/n - São João dos Mellos, Júlio de Castilhos - RS, 98130-000, Brazil
-29.433, -53.540
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsBasalt stone monoliths and figurative carvings by Rogério Bertoldo

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Autumn or Spring for mild temperatures and optimal lighting for photography against the stone surfaces..

The main entrance trail where the density of basalt sculptures creates a dramatic tunnel-like perspective.

Close by you'll find Paróquia Santíssima Trindade, Monte Grappa, Cruz Luminosa.

Brazil

About Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul