Museu do Morro da Caixa D'Água Velha
Mato Grosso
The Museu do Morro da Caixa D'Água Velha is a public museum located in Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil. Originally built in the 19th century under the leadership of Colonel José Maria de Alencastro, it served as the city's primary water reservoir for 142 years. The structure features an impressive internal architecture with three large spaces measuring 13 by 45 meters each, including the old aqueduct that once stored 1.2 million liters of water. Water was captured from the Cuiabá River through an advanced hydraulic system powered by a steam engine, then distributed by gravity to public fountains across the city. After its decommissioning in 1940 due to population growth, the site was restored and transformed into a museum in 2007. Today, it serves as an important cultural and tourist attraction, housing permanent exhibitions about its historical function and rotating art displays by local and regional artists. Recognized as a cultural heritage site of Cuiabá since 1991, the museum offers visitors an insightful look into the city's water supply history and regional art scene.
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Tip: The best time to visit is during weekdays to avoid crowds and to fully enjoy the exhibitions. It is advisable to check the museum's official website for current exhibition schedules and any special events. Tickets may offer discounts for students and seniors. Booking in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons or special cultural events.
Interesting facts
- •The reservoir stored up to 1.2 million liters of water, distributed by gravity through cast iron pipes.
- •The water was originally pumped from the Cuiabá River using a steam-powered hydraulic system, a technological advance for the 19th century.
- •Residents historically collected water from public fountains using drums, carts, or by carrying it on their shoulders or heads, often as a means of income.
- •The museum's three main internal spaces each measure 13 meters wide by 45 meters long, showcasing the scale of the original reservoir.
- •It was the only water reservoir serving Cuiabá for 142 years until its deactivation in 1940.
History
The Museu do Morro da Caixa D'Água Velha originated in the 19th century during the leadership of Colonel José Maria de Alencastro, addressing Cuiabá's water supply challenges.
Construction began in the late 1800s and was completed in November 1882.
For over a century, it was the sole water reservoir for the city, supporting a population of approximately 20,000 at the time.
Due to population growth and increased water demand, the facility was deactivated in 1940.
In 1991, it was declared a cultural heritage site by the Cuiabá City Council.
A major restoration project commenced in 2007, converting the structure into a museum that preserves and celebrates its historical significance.
Place Guide
Old Aqueduct and Reservoir Space1882
This central part of the museum was originally the aqueduct that stored 1.2 million liters of water. Visitors can explore the vast internal chambers that illustrate the scale and engineering of the 19th-century water system.
Permanent Exhibition of Water Supply Artifacts
Displays include original cast iron pipes, control valves, and other equipment essential for the reservoir's operation, providing insight into historical water distribution technology.
Rotating Art Exhibitions
The museum hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing artworks by local and Mato Grosso state artists, enriching the cultural experience beyond its historical focus.
