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Places of interest #10 in Petrópolis

Casa da Princesa Isabel

4.4 · 1,592 reviews
A quiet, historical site of reflection
Casa da Princesa Isabel - Av. Koeler, 42 - Centro, Petrópolis - RJ, 25685-060, Brazil
Interesting facts
1

The house was constructed in 1853 and originally belonged to the Barão do Bom Retiro.

2

Princess Isabel and her husband, the Count d'Eu, moved into the property in 1876.

3

The residence is situated on the Avenida Koeler, which is lined with historic mansions and dense trees.

4

The building is currently owned by the Orleans e Bragança family, descendants of the Brazilian monarchy.

5

It is officially listed by the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN) for its architectural value.

Overview

The Casa da Princesa Isabel, located on Avenida Koeler, served as the primary residence of Princess Isabel, the daughter of Emperor Dom Pedro II, during her stays in Petrópolis. This mid-19th-century residence features traditional neoclassical architecture typical of the period's elite summer homes. The site holds historical significance as the location where the Princess signed the Golden Law (Lei Áurea) in 1888, officially abolishing slavery in Brazil. The property remains a private residence for the Brazilian Imperial Family descendants and is not a public museum. Consequently, the interior is not open for standard visitor tours. Observers can view the historical exterior facade and the gardens from the street. It stands as a prominent example of the historic preservation efforts within the Imperial City of Petrópolis.

Photo spot

From the sidewalk across Avenida Koeler, capturing the full width of the facade and the surrounding garden greenery.

Insider tips

View the mansion while walking down Avenida Koeler to appreciate the colonial-style urban planning of the neighborhood.

Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Catedral de São Pedro de Alcântara, located just a short distance away.

Bring a camera for exterior architectural shots, as the building facade is well-preserved.

What to avoid

Do not expect an interior tour or a museum experience, as the building is not open to the public.

Etiquette

Respect that the site is a private residence; do not attempt to enter private gates or private property grounds.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
15-20 minutes
Best time to visit
Mid-morning on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the historic district.
Address
Casa da Princesa Isabel - Av. Koeler, 42 - Centro, Petrópolis - RJ, 25685-060, Brazil
-22.506, -43.181
Get directions
Details
Architectural Style19th-century Neoclassical
Historical SignificanceResidence of Princess Isabel and site associated with the Golden Law

Frequently asked

Plan for about 15-20 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Mid-morning on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the historic district..

From the sidewalk across Avenida Koeler, capturing the full width of the facade and the surrounding garden greenery.

Close by you'll find Imperial Museum, Palácio de Cristal, Catedral São Pedro de Alcântara.