The Palácio de Cristal was opened in 1884 to house exhibitions of flowers, birds, and agricultural products. Its pre-molded structure, cast in iron, was ordered from a foundry in France by Conde D’Eu and was assembled in Petrópolis by engineer Eduardo Bonjean. For five years, between the 1930s and 1940s, the Palácio de Cristal housed the Petrópolis Historical Museum, which would later be transferred into Dom Pedro II's summer home, where it remains today.

Throughout its history, the place has also hosted notable events. Its most beautiful celebration was held in 1888, on Easter Sunday, when Princess Isabel, together with her children, delivered letters of manumission to slaves. But the place is still used today for municipal events, such as Bauernfest, a traditional event in honor of German settlers.

Listed by the Institute of National Historical and Artistic Heritage (Iphan) due to its historical and cultural importance, it is part of the architectural and landscape complex of the old Confluence Square, where there is also a large garden with flowerbeds, water mirrors, and well-kept lawns. The site is open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9am to 6pm, with free entry.

Where it is: R. Alfredo Pachá, s/n - Center, Petrópolis

How to get there: By Bus (from Petrópolis Bus Station visitors can take a taxi, or app car to the Palace. There are also buses to the Historic Center (the urban terminal is inside the Bus Station itself).