The Museum of the Acrean Peoples: A Cultural Gem in the Amazon

The Museum of the Acrean Peoples, opened in August 2023 in Rio Branco, Brazil, highlights the state’s rich culture and history through a range of exhibits, including a prehistoric fossil. Funded by the World Bank, the museum features seven exhibition areas, an auditorium, and a café. The site tells the stories of both indigenous peoples and prominent Acreans, fostering pride and awareness in the local heritage. Since its opening, it has welcomed over 32,000 visitors, enhancing the cultural landscape of the area.

The Museum of the Acrean Peoples, located in downtown Rio Branco, Brazil, offers a rich insight into the culture and history of the often-overlooked state of Acre. Established in August 2023 with support from the World Bank, the museum highlights the historical narratives of Acre’s indigenous peoples and settlers alike. Visitors can admire various exhibits, including a fossil of the Purussaurus, an ancient ancestor of modern caimans, which serves as a remarkable connection to the region’s prehistoric past.

The museum’s development was facilitated by the Acre Social and Economic Inclusion and Sustainable Development Project (ProAcre), which invested approximately R$ 16 million (about USD 2.8 million) to convert an old school into a vibrant cultural center. The facility features seven climate-controlled exhibition areas, an auditorium, a café, and a souvenir shop, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience for all visitors.

Among its various attractions, the Chico Mendes Room stands out, alongside an interactive space dedicated to local slang and phrases. Notably, the Personalities Room showcases prominent Acreans, including musician João Donato and novelist Glória Perez, thus connecting visitors with significant figures from the state’s history. ProAcre’s initiatives have significantly enriched cultural pride and awareness among the Acrean populace.

The museum’s venue has a history dating back to 1952 when it served as a boys’ boarding school established by Italian friar André Morini Ficarelli. The school evolved through its history, hosting cultural activities and political movements, including those led by influential figures such as Chico Mendes. Following its closure in 2005, the building fell into disrepair until its transformation into a museum in 2018.

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, which is dotted with shops and eateries along the scenic Branco River. The museum offers both an educational experience and an enjoyable view from its mezzanine. Visitors are encouraged to book their visits online to explore the diverse offerings of the museum.

The Museum of the Acrean Peoples serves as a vital cultural institution that not only documents the rich history and heritage of Acre but also fosters regional pride among its residents. Supported by the ProAcre project, the museum highlights significant figures and artifacts that reflect the state’s diverse narrative. Its establishment marks a notable transformation from neglect to a space of cultural celebration and community engagement, making it an essential destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Original Source: www.worldbank.org