The Yellow Palace (Palacio Amarelo) is a beautiful landmark located in the heart of Petrópolis’ historic center. It’s an interesting place to include on a walking tour of the city’s European-style architecture. The Yellow Palace is the seat of the municipality of Petrópolis. Come here to admire its architectural grandeur, peek inside its rooms and watch government workers pass by.
José Carlos Mayrink, a senator of the Empire of Brazil, commissioned the construction of the palace in 1850 during the rule of Dom Pedro II. It originally consisted of one single story. The Baron of Guaraciaba acquired the palace in 1891 and it became the City Hall of Petrópolis in 1894. Look up to the upper floor, which was added in 1897.
The elegant yellow-brick façade showcases a neoclassical design. It features Greek-style columns, capitals and pilasters. Notice the cherub carvings placed above the windows of the upper floor. A balustrade runs along the top of the building with a dome at each side. Crowning the two domes are statues of winged angels.
Visitors are welcome to enter the palace and witness the activity of a working administrative headquarters. Take one of the free guided tours to get an understanding of its purpose and century-old past. Decorative highlights of the interior are the grand marble staircase and the detailed woodwork of the chambers. Study the paintings by José Huss and the detailed ceiling by the sculptor Henrique Levy. At the top of the staircase is a bust of Emperor Dom Pedro II.
Located in the city center of Petrópolis, the palace is within walking distance of other city attractions. Opposite is the Imperial Museum, which has artifacts that recount Brazilian history. A short walk to the north is the Cathedral of Saint Peter of Alcantara, a French neo-Gothic masterpiece. Santos Dumont House, the former residence of a national aviation pioneer, is also worth visiting.
The Yellow Palace is open daily and admission is free. Join one of the guided tours that take place at regular intervals during opening hours.
