Monumento à Princesa Isabel, a Redentora

Last modified April 5, 2026

The Monumento à Princesa Isabel, a Redentora is a bronze statue and tourist attraction on Avenida Princesa Isabel in Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana neighborhood.

What to Expect

You will see a statue honoring Princess Isabel, the heiress to the Brazilian Empire. She is known as “the Redemptress” for signing the Lei Áurea, the law that abolished slavery in Brazil in 1888. The monument pays tribute to this act of abolition. Visitors often take photographs here, particularly during the sunset over Copacabana Beach.

History & Significance

Princess Isabel was the heiress presumptive to the throne of the Empire of Brazil. Her historical significance stems from her role as the signatory of the Golden Law on May 13, 1888, which ended slavery in the country. The monument was erected to commemorate this pivotal event in Brazilian history.

Practical Information

The monument is located at Av. Princesa Isabel, 190 in Copacabana. It is a public statue situated along a major avenue, easily accessible on foot from the beach. The site has a 4.4 out of 5 rating based on visitor reviews.

Location

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Right where Leme and Copacabana beaches meet, there’s a bronze statue that most people breeze past without a second thought. The Monumento à Princesa Isabel, a Redentora, honors the woman who signed the Golden Law in 1888—effectively ending slavery in Brazil.

You’ll spot it on Avenida Princesa Isabel, standing as a reminder of a pretty seismic shift in Brazilian history. The statue itself? Princess Isabel, arm outstretched, balanced atop a white pedestal and framed by palm trees.

It’s a surprisingly photogenic spot, especially at sunset when the light gets all soft and golden. Plus, you’re just a stone’s throw from Copacabana Beach, so you can easily swing by on your way to the sand.

Most folks wander past, never realizing Brazil was the last Western country to abolish slavery—and that this decision toppled the royal family just a year later. The statue sits in a little green oasis, a place where locals and the odd curious traveler pause, maybe to rest or just to take in a piece of Rio’s tangled past.

Key Takeaways

• The monument commemorates Princess Isabel signing the law that ended slavery in Brazil in 1888
• It’s on Avenida Princesa Isabel, super close to Copacabana Beach—perfect for a quick stop and a photo
• The statue’s best at sunset, when the palms and bronze glow in the late-day light

About Monumento à Princesa Isabel, a Redentora

This bronze statue in Copacabana pays tribute to Princess Isabel—the woman who abolished slavery with a single signature in 1888. It’s both a slice of history and a quiet little pause along Avenida Princesa Isabel, where you’ll see locals catching a break from the city’s buzz.

History and Significance

Created by sculptor Edgar Duvivier in 2003, the monument continues a family tradition—his father was also a well-known artist in Brazil. Princess Isabel herself was born right here in Rio in 1846, the eldest daughter of Emperor Pedro II.

While her father was away in 1871, Isabel acted as regent and signed the Lei do Ventre Livre, freeing children born to enslaved mothers. But her defining moment came in 1888, when she signed the Lei Áurea (Golden Law), finally abolishing slavery in Brazil.

The monument’s spot in Copacabana ties modern Rio to that momentous day. For her role, Pope Leo XIII awarded her the Rosa de Ouro, a rare honor. Still, the abolition didn’t win her many friends among Brazil’s powerful landowners—her family was forced out just a year later.

What Makes It Special

Honestly, most tourists miss this place entirely. While everyone’s lining up for Christ the Redeemer, this statue sits quietly along one of Copacabana’s main arteries.

If you’re around at sunset, you’ll notice locals hanging out, maybe catching up or just soaking in the view. There’s something poignant about knowing Princess Isabel never got to rule as empress—she was exiled to France after the 1889 revolution and died there in 1921.

The “Redentora” (Redeemer) title is no accident—it’s meant to echo Christ the Redeemer, connecting Isabel’s act to something almost spiritual in Brazil’s story. Funny how that detail never makes it onto the tourist brochures, isn’t it?

What to See and Do

The statue’s the main event, but you’re also smack in the middle of Copacabana, with the ocean just steps away and plenty of cultural landmarks nearby. If you catch it at sunset, the bronze really comes alive in the light.

Main Attractions and Highlights

Princess Isabel’s bronze figure stands on a white cylindrical base, arm out, as if she’s still signing the Golden Law. The palms and green space around her make it feel less like a monument and more like a neighborhood hangout.

You’ll find it at Avenida Princesa Isabel, 190—right where Copacabana and Leme meet. From here, you’re a quick walk to the famous wave-patterned promenade and the sand. Some folks pair a visit with the Forte de Copacabana for sweeping ocean views, or detour north to the quieter Praia do Leme.

Benches and winding pathways fill the area. Sit for a bit, watch the world go by, and let the history sink in. It’s a real working part of the neighborhood, not just a backdrop for selfies.

Best Time to Visit

Sunset’s the magic hour, no question. The monument’s open 24/7, but late afternoon—say, 5 to 6 PM—gives you that warm, golden light and cooler air.

Weekday mornings are usually pretty calm if you want the place to yourself. On weekends, it livens up with families, street vendors, and a bigger crowd. Sunday afternoons are especially lively.

After dark, the statue’s lit up, which gives it a totally different vibe. If you’re making an evening of it, grab dinner along Avenida Atlântica. And if you’re around on May 13, the anniversary of abolition, check if there’s anything special going on.

Visitor Information

You’ll find the monument where Avenida Princesa Isabel meets Copacabana Beach, easily accessible day or night. Whether you’re staying nearby or coming from across town, it’s a breeze to reach.

Location and How to Get There

Look for the statue at Avenida Princesa Isabel, 190—right at the boundary of Copacabana and Leme. It’s hard to miss once you’re in the area.

The metro’s probably your best bet to dodge Rio’s notorious traffic. Hop on Line 1 to Cardeal Arcoverde, then it’s a ten-minute stroll toward the beach and up the coast. Buses 415, 474, and 538 all stop close by if you’re coming from elsewhere.

If you’re already lounging at Copacabana Beach, just walk north along the promenade. The monument’s right by the shore, so you’ll stumble on it before you know it. Most people tack it onto a beach day—it’s that close to the sand.

Tips for Visitors

The monument’s open 24/7, so you can swing by at sunrise if you’re after that soft, dreamy light—and, honestly, you’ll have the place almost to yourself. Late afternoon’s another sweet spot, especially if you’re chasing that golden glow for your photos.

There’s no admission fee, no ticket booth, no formal tour. It’s just a public monument waiting for you to stroll up and take it in.

One thing guidebooks tend to skip: weekends and Brazilian holidays bring plenty of locals out, especially with the beaches so close. Expect a bit of a crowd if you visit then, but hey, that’s part of the energy.

You’ll find the monument right at street level—no stairs, no tricky ramps. It’s easy to reach whether you’re on foot or using a wheelchair.

Restrooms? Not here, but honestly, you’re a two-minute walk from beach kiosks and cafes along the avenue. Grab a coffee or a fresh coconut water while you’re at it.