Museu Cais do Sertao (Pier of the Sertao Museum), Recife

The Cais do Sertão Museum, opened in 2014, presents the culture of the sertão, the semi-arid interior region of Pernambuco, through a combination of traditional displays and digital media. A central focus is Luiz Gonzaga, whose work played a major role in popularizing forró and bringing elements of sertão life, including music, language, and imagery, into national awareness.

Inside, the museum is organized into thematic sections that explore both cultural expression and daily routines in the region. Visitors encounter a recreated rural house, audiovisual installations, and interactive exhibits that explain migration, climate, and social conditions. Music remains a key element throughout, with spaces where visitors can listen, sing, and experiment with instruments such as the accordion. Digital displays and projections help connect personal stories with broader regional history.

Several named areas structure the experience, including the Sala do Imbalança, Sertãomundo, and the Túnel do Capeta, each presenting different aspects of sertão identity. In 2018, the museum expanded with the addition of the Umbuzeiro Space, an open-air area used for events, and the É do Povo Auditorium, which accommodates 272 people. The upper level includes a Production Room designed for workshops, temporary exhibitions, and educational activities.