Designed by the architect Oscar Niemeyer, it was built on the mirador Mirante da Boa Viagem, a privileged location over the waters of the Guanabara Bay that directs the visitor's look to the other side where Corcovado and Pão de Açúcar hills are situated. Niemeyer used to state that when visiting the place he "pictured the museum as anything free in sight, a white bird flying in the sky and over the ocean of Niterói", which means a deep respect for the landscape.

The museum holds João Satamini's collection, one of the most important in the country, with a significant sample of everything that has been updating our art since the 50's. Another step to make Niterói the capital of the Brazilian culture. The museum has been considered as a worldwide touristic reference. "Niemeyer's architecture is founded on the earth, but it levitates".

Inaugurated on September 6th, 1996.

Place: Mirante da Boa Viagem, s/nº - Boa Viagem
Phone no.: 2620-2400 / 2620-2481
Visiting hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 10am to 6pm; Monday: Closed
From April 1st of 2007, visiting hours for the Museum of Contemporary Art will return to 10 am to 6 pm.
Price: Adults - R$ 4,00 / Students: R$ 2,00 / Wednesday - Free