Teles Arch (Arco do Teles)
Praca Quinze de Novembro 34a, Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Southeast Brazil, 20010-010
Located off Rio de Janeiro’s Praça Quinze de Novembro public square, the Teles Arch (Arco do Teles) is a historic archway that dates to the mid-18th century. A remnant of Brazil’s colonial period, the archway leads to several narrow alleys lined by historic buildings, which now host lively bars and restaurants.
The basics
A listed historical landmark since 1938, the Teles Arch (Arco do Teles) is a highlight of Rio de Janeiro’s Centro neighborhood. After a fire in 1790, the archway fell into disrepair. Today, however, the Teles Arch is once more a celebrated historic landmark. The street that runs underneath it (the Travessa do Comércio) and the perpendicular street it connects to the Rua do Ouvidor are now popular destinations for happy-hour drinks and for admiring the area’s architecture, best done on walking tours of the Centro neighborhood.
Things to know before you go
While Rio’s Centro neighborhood has undergone considerable rejuvenation, it’s wise to use your street smarts and avoid displaying valuables when exploring.
Area bars and restaurants such as Esquina do Teles and Boteco Saravá are popular options for sitting outside, enjoying draft beer (or chopp), and ordering traditional dishes such as feijoada (bean and pork stew).
When major soccer games are on, fans flock to the area’s bars, and its narrow alleys can become very crowded. Visit at an alternative time for a calmer experience.
How to get there
The Teles Arch links the ever-busy Praça Quinze de Novembro with the narrow Travessa do Comércio in Rio de Janeiro’s Centro district. The area is well-served by public transit, from buses and the VLT Carioca tram (use the Praça XV stop) to the Metrô (use the Carioca/Centro stop) and even numerous ferry lines (use the Praça XV terminal). Cabs and rideshare services also make it easy to get around.
When to get there
The Teles Arch is accessible all throughout the year. Aim for typical daytime hours on a good-weather day, when you can explore it as part of a walking tour of the neighborhood’s highlights. Note that most happy-hour crowds visit on weekdays in the late afternoon, though it’s also worth visiting on Saturday mornings when the Praça Quinze de Novembro’s weekly antiques market is on.
Where to see Centro’s historic architecture
The alleyways around the Teles Arch are a highlight for their preserved colonial architecture, and the surrounding region is home to a range of other major landmarks and monuments. Don’t miss attractions such as the Imperial Palace (Paço Imperial), Palácio Tiradentes, and the many statues along the Praça Quinze de Novembro.
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