Learn about the history of the Brazilian army and its involvement in past conflicts with a visit to Porto Alegre’s Military Museum. There are more than 4,000 pieces in the museum’s collections, including weapons, armour, uniforms, honours and vehicles. They relate to Military Command South that comprises the southern states of Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina. Also on show are antique documents, the contents of which helped shape the country’s history.
The museum is housed in a former arsenal that dates back to 1867. This is where arms and ammunition used to be manufactured and stored.
Walk through the large central courtyard to see a collection of tanks including an M3 Stuart and M4 Sherman. Visitors are even permitted to climb inside and on top of some of the vehicles. Look inside the tanks to see the drive controls, periscope and cramped conditions that soldiers experience. The courtyard also contains field guns that once fired heavy shells on battlefields.
Discover how vehicles of war have changed over time, from the earliest forms of motorized transport to be used in battle to the latest armour-plated trucks. View a range of important documents and medals and don’t miss the display of photographs taken from several front lines. The information panels are in Portuguese, but some have English translations.
The Military Museum also presents a number of temporary exhibitions. In previous years, they have focused on such topics as women’s participation in the Military World Games and the evolution of weapons through the centuries. Check online at the museum’s website or at one of the city’s tourism centers for details of upcoming events.
The Military Museum is open every day, but times vary. Check the up-to-date schedule on the museum’s website. Guided tours are available, but book in advance to ensure you have an English-speaking member of staff. The museum is in the central part of the old city and is well served by public transport. Admission is free.
