State Archive of Rio de Janeiro is undergoing a renovation

From a tram garage in the 20th century to the State Archive of the State of Rio de Janeiro (Aperj), the building housing the memory of the state has undergone several upgrades throughout its history. The most recent one, which began last year, was completed the day before. The investment by the state government through the Public Works Company (Emop-RJ) amounted to R$2.5 million (US$492,300).

"At the State Archive, we preserve and safeguard cultural and historical heritage of immeasurable value. The investment in upgrading the premises is a guarantee that future generations will have access to everything we have created. Preserving Aperj is preserving our own history," said Governor Claudio Castro.

Even during the works, the public was not deprived from access to the past. Unable to receive visitors physically, the archive has launched a virtual environment. The building will now undergo an internal reorganisation in the coming months. It is expected to open in August.

The State Archive has a consultation room, library and documentary collection: manuscripts, maps, books, newspapers, photographs, vinyl records, cassette tape, films, microfilms, flags, pennants, medals, buttons as well as personal files and private collections.

The building, which is connected to the State Office of the Chief of Staff, keeps a collection of more than four thousand linear metres, the equivalent of 38 times the size of a Maracana football field, as reported by Toda Palavra, a partner of TV BRICS.

The structure, which tells the history of Rio, has participated in the changes that have taken place in the state over time. At the end of 2022, during construction work carried out by a natural gas company, there was found wooden stakes from sleepers that served as supports for the tram tracks in the twentieth century.

The State Archive, which keeps exhibits from the 18th century to the present day, has recently undergone renovations that ensure the preservation of historical documents and provide more facilities for visitors, such as creating an auditorium for lectures offered by Archive staff. The facade of the building has been preserved as it is a historic structure.

"The renovation has given new life to the State Archive, which is now truly ready to perform perfectly one of its main functions - to preserve the memory of the State of Rio de Janeiro, as well as to serve the public with greater comfort and efficiency. Now that all phases of the renovation have been completed, the staff's work will become much easier," explained Marco Aurelio, director of the archive.

Photo: Toda Palavra