The Museum of the Acrean Peoples: A Cultural and Natural Treasure in the Brazilian Amazon

Contrary to conspiracy theories and Brazilian internet memes, the remote state of Acre not only exists but also boasts a rich history and culture. Since August 2023, this legacy has been properly documented in a space accessible to the general public: the Museum of the Acrean Peoples, in downtown Rio Branco. Contrary to common jokes, there are no dinosaurs roaming the state. However, the museum houses a well-preserved fossil of a Purussaurus (pictured below), the gigantic ancestor of the caiman, offering visitors a unique window into Acre's prehistoric past.

The museum became a reality through the Acre Social and Economic Inclusion and Sustainable Development Project (ProAcre), supported by the World Bank. Around R$ 16 million (approximately USD 2.8 million) was invested to transform an old school into a tourist attraction.

The space features seven exhibition areas—all air-conditioned and with special lighting—along with an internal atrium, an auditorium, a café, and a souvenir shop. Its collection includes furniture, artworks, significant archaeological and paleontological finds, as well as videos, books, and audio recordings, among others. All these resources play a crucial role in expanding knowledge, fostering sociocultural development, and strengthening regional identity.

Among the exhibits, the Chico Mendes Room stands out, as well as a space that recreates the house of a rubber tapper, and the Personalities Room. The latter presents photos and brief biographies of Acreans who gained national prominence, such as musician João Donato, novelist Glória Perez, and politician Enéas Carneiro. Another attraction is the interactive room, where visitors can solve a crossword puzzle and discover slang and phrases commonly used in Acre.

Years of Neglect

The building's history began in 1952 when Italian friar André Morini Ficarelli, a resident of Acre, was tasked with building a boys' boarding school to accommodate young people coming to Rio Branco to study at the Acrean School. The construction took seven years due to delays in the arrival of building materials. Eventually, at the request of students' families, the place became the Fathers' School, which operated until 1978, later transforming into a secular school: Meta.

From then on, Meta became known not only for promoting cultural and sports activities among students but also for hosting student movements and union meetings, such as those promoted by Chico Mendes. Another interesting fact is that the current Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Marina Silva, taught classes there.

In 2005, the school moved to a new location, leaving the original building abandoned for years. In 2016, the Acre government expropriated the building, and two years later, renovation and transformation into a museum began.

Cultural Heritage

Between August 2023 and January 2025, the Museum of the Acrean Peoples received over 32,000 visitors. By highlighting the historical and cultural aspects of both the indigenous peoples and those who came seeking work and development opportunities, the museum further enhances a historic and tourist area of the city: the center, with its colorful houses, which host craft shops, bars, and restaurants along the Branco River, which also gives the state capital its name. From the museum's mezzanine, visitors can enjoy a beautiful view of this area.

"ProAcre made this and other investments in properties representing the state's cultural and historical heritage, strengthening the pride that Acreans have in their own origin, history, and culture," emphasizes Fatima Amazonas, who was the project manager on behalf of the World Bank.

One particularly proud visitor was Aline Albuquerque (pictured above), 36, currently a technical advisor to the State Civil House Secretariat. A former Meta student, she accompanied the World Bank team on a visit to the museum and shared childhood memories as she passed through the rooms. "After the school moved to another location, I never came back here. I am very happy that this space is being well utilized," she said.

To visit the museum's attractions, it is necessary to schedule online: https://linktr.ee/MuseuDosPovosAcreanos