Niemeyer also designed the pavilion that houses the Museu Afro Brasil (Pavilhão Padre Manoel da Nóbrega, Portão 10, Ibirapuera, tel. 11/5579-0593, www.museuafrobrasil.com.br [1], 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Wed.–Mon.). This is a museum you shouldn’t miss: Its three floors offer a compelling look at the rich historical, cultural, and artistic legacies of Brazil’s Afro-Descendentes population, dating from the 16th century to the present day.
Highlights include finely crafted African artifacts along with objects and clothing used in Afro-Brazilian celebrations and rituals. Particularly harrowing is a room devoted to the slave ships that brought so many Africans—literally packed side-by-side like sardines—to the New World.
Insightful temporary exhibits by black artists from Brazil [2] and overseas offer more contemporary visions of the African diaspora.
Links:
[1] http://www.museuafrobrasil.com.br
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/brazil/discover-brazil