Rio de Janeiro expropriates historic Cosme Velho properties

The Rio de Janeiro City Hall has formalized the expropriation of two historic properties in the Cosme Velho neighborhood: Solar dos Abacaxis and the Casa de Cândido Portinari. The decision aims at urban renewal, and the properties are expected to be auctioned after being incorporated into the municipal heritage.

The move follows recent safety concerns in the area, including a partial collapse of another building on the same street that injured a woman and a child. Residents and local associations had previously warned authorities about structural issues such as infiltrations, deteriorating facades, and roof risks at these locations.

The Casa de Cândido Portinari holds significant cultural value, as the painter lived there between 1943 and 1950, producing numerous works during that period. Solar dos Abacaxis is also historically notable, having served as the residence of poet Anna Amélia Carneiro de Mendonça and historian Marcos Carneiro de Mendonça.