Praça XV de Novembro

Praça XV de Novembro is an open square in the Centro district of Rio de Janeiro, surrounded by buildings from the colonial period and a baroque fountain dating to the late 18th century. A ferry terminal and tram stop sit at the edge, where pathways branch in several directions.

The square originally served as the arrival point for the Portuguese royal family in the early 19th century, connecting the harbor district with the administrative center. In November 1889, the end of the monarchy was announced here, turning the site into a symbol of political change in Brazil.

The central gathering place carries a name that honors the start of the Brazilian Republic, marking November 15 in its official title. Every Saturday, the pavement fills with vendors displaying furniture, coins, and handmade objects from past decades, while visitors move through rows of stands.

The ferry to Niterói departs from the terminal regularly throughout the day, and several bus lines stop along the adjacent streets for connections to other parts of the city. Weekends bring more visitors due to markets and events, while weekday use remains quieter.

On certain afternoons, skateboarders use a marked area of the square to practice tricks and set up small ramps. This use has grown over the years, linking monuments with an active sports scene today.