Casa da Cultura (House of Culture), Recife (must see)

Casa da Cultura, also known as the House of Culture, occupies a former prison building inaugurated in 1855 and completed in 1867. Designed by engineer José Mamede Alves Ferreira, it follows a radial, cross-shaped plan with four wings extending from a central hall. Covered by a metal dome, the layout allowed guards to monitor all sections from one point and made it the first panoptic prison of its kind in South America. It operated for 118 years before closing in 1973 due to overcrowding.

The building was later transformed into a cultural space through a project led by Francisco Brennand, with architectural adaptations by Lina Bo Bardi. It opened to the public in 1976, while keeping its original structure. Visitors can still follow the same circulation paths used in the past, moving through long corridors lined with former cells and connected by the central hall.

Historical elements remain visible throughout the building. The writer Graciliano Ramos was held there in 1936 during the period of the Getúlio Vargas regime, and his cell is marked with his name. Cell #106 in the east wing has been preserved in its original state, with carvings left by prisoners still visible on the walls, offering a direct view of past conditions.

Today, around 150 former cells operate as small shops selling regional crafts such as ceramics, leather goods, lace, embroidery, and wood carvings. Bargaining is common, especially when purchasing multiple items. The building also includes a small museum dedicated to Frevo, presenting recordings and objects linked to this tradition. Food stalls and a central dining area offer local dishes such as bolo de rolo, tapioca, and pamonha, reflecting everyday culinary practices.