Niterói Contemporary Art Museum

Welcome to the Mah-key, or the Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Niterói, an architectural masterpiece that has become the definitive 'symbol of the city of Niterói.' As we stand here on the Mirante de Boa Viagem, you are looking at…

As we begin our ascent, we step onto the 'tapete vermelho,' or the red carpet ramp. This is perhaps the most famous ramp in the world of architecture. …

We have now entered the main circular hall of the museum. The space is vast and open, with 'permanent and temporary exhibitions' that showcase the best of 'Brazilian contemporary art.' The heart of the museum's holdings is the…

Perhaps the most breathtaking feature of the museum is the circular corridor with its massive, slanted glass windows. This area provides a '360-degree view' that is simply 'spectacular.' As you walk around the perimeter, you can…

Descending the stairs to the lower level, we find a 'hidden' gem: the museum's bistro. This space is tucked into the 'subsoil' of the building but still manages to offer an 'amazing view' through its wide windows. …

Before we leave, we must spend some time in the 'exterior plaza' on the Mirante de Boa Viagem. This open space allows us to appreciate the 'monumental scale' of the museum from the ground. …

Getting to and from the MAC is part of the adventure. The most scenic way to arrive is by 'taking the ferry' (barca) from Praça XV in Rio to the Niterói terminal. …

As we conclude our visit to the Niterói Contemporary Art Museum, I hope you carry with you the sense of 'wonder' that this place inspires. We have explored one of the 'seven wonders of the world in museums,' a building that is as…