The Museum of the Acrean Peoples in Rio Branco, Brazil, opened in August 2023 with World Bank support. It highlights Acre’s history through various exhibitions, including a Purussaurus fossil. Funded by R$ 16 million, the museum features several interactive areas and has attracted over 32,000 visitors since opening. Its development represents a revival of the historic site previously used as a school.
The Museum of the Acrean Peoples, supported by the World Bank, serves as a significant cultural institution in Rio Branco, Brazil. Opened to the public in August 2023, this museum emphasizes the rich cultural heritage of the often-misunderstood state of Acre. Unlike the internet rumors suggesting otherwise, the state features a preserved Purussaurus fossil, an important artifact reflecting its prehistoric heritage.
Funded by approximately R$ 16 million (around USD 2.8 million) through the Acre Social and Economic Inclusion and Sustainable Development Project (ProAcre), the museum was established in a refurbished old school. The facility boasts seven exhibition areas, all equipped with air conditioning and specialized lighting, alongside an auditorium, café, and souvenir shop, all of which contribute to a vibrant visitor experience.
The exhibitions showcase various cultural elements, including furniture, artworks, and significant archaeological and paleontological artifacts. Notable areas include the Chico Mendes Room, which highlights the prominent environmental activist, and the Personalities Room, featuring influential Acreans such as João Donato and Glória Perez. An interactive room further engages guests through games that explore local slang and phrases.
The previous school building has a history dating back to 1952 when it was originally constructed as a boarding school by Italian friar André Morini Ficarelli. Over the years, the facility has played a critical role in education and community organization. Following its abandonment in 2005, an initiative by the Acre government led to its renovation into the current museum.
Since its opening, the Museum of the Acrean Peoples has attracted over 32,000 visitors, enriching the cultural landscape of Rio Branco’s historic center. The museum not only showcases indigenous and local narratives but also celebrates the cultural pride of Acre’s people. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the city’s vibrant center from the museum’s mezzanine, enhancing their engagement with Acre’s rich heritage. For those wishing to visit, scheduling is required online: https://linktr.ee/MuseuDosPovosAcreanos.
The Museum of the Acrean Peoples stands as a testament to the rich cultural and historical narratives of Acre. Supported by the World Bank and developed through extensive renovations, it showcases essential artifacts and exhibitions that celebrate the region’s past and cultural identity. With significant visitor engagement and a commitment to local heritage, the museum serves as a vital institution for both education and cultural pride among the people of Acre.
Original Source: www.worldbank.org
