museum · Belo Horizonte, MG
Museu de Artes e Ofícios
Opened in 2005 in the former Estação Central complex, at Praça da Estação, it holds more than 2,000 pieces related to work and trades from the 18th to the 20th century. Tools, utensils and machines tell the story of pre-industrial popular production.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Museu de Artes e Ofícios
The Museu de Artes e Ofícios (Museum of Arts and Trades), or MAO, tells the story of work in Brazil. Tools, utensils, machines, vehicles and clothing show trades from the 18th to the 20th century, many of them predating industry.
It is housed in the former Estação Central complex of Belo Horizonte, at Praça da Estação. The main building, in an eclectic style with neoclassical influence, opened in 1922 on the site of the capital's first station. The museum opened in 2005, based on the collection gathered by Angela Gutierrez and maintained by the Instituto Cultural Flávio Gutierrez.
The pieces are organized by trade: transportation, commerce, energy, mining, and work with wood, leather, textiles and jewelry. Mannequins help you understand how each job was done. The exhibition fills both station buildings, connected by a tunnel, and the old platform. Trains and the subway still run alongside.
It is a relaxed, indoor outing, good for families and for those interested in the history of everyday life. The education team offers guided visits by appointment.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
An hour and a half is enough to go through the rooms at a relaxed pace; if you read everything, you may stay two hours.
Best time
Any time of year, as it is an indoor outing. In the morning downtown is calmer, and the light flatters the facade seen from the square.
How to get there
It is at Praça Rui Barbosa, known as Praça da Estação, in downtown Belo Horizonte. You can walk from Praça Sete, less than 1 km away. Central subway station is in the complex itself, and several bus lines serve the area.
Tip
Combine the visit with a stroll around Praça da Estação and the Viaduto Santa Tereza, right next door; check the hours and entry conditions on the official website before you go.
Official website
A look at the place
Museu de Artes e Ofícios in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Museu de Artes e Ofícios
What is in the Museu de Artes e Ofícios?
Tools, utensils, machines, vehicles and clothing related to work in Brazil between the 18th and 20th centuries, organized by trade.
Where is the Museu de Artes e Ofícios?
At Praça da Estação (Praça Rui Barbosa), in downtown Belo Horizonte, in the former Estação Central building.
Is there an entrance fee at the MAO?
Entry conditions and free days may change. Check the official website before your visit.
How long does the visit take?
About an hour and a half to see the rooms at a relaxed pace.
Can I get there by subway?
Yes. Central subway station is in the same complex as the former railway station.