Ilha Fiscal

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Brazil

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Ilha Fiscal, or Fiscal Island, is a small island in Guanabara Bay near the historic city center of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Originally called “Rat Island” (Ilha dos Ratos) by Europeans due to its shape or the presence of rodents, it was renamed in the 19th century when it became the location of the Guarda Fiscal, the customs and tax inspection post for the imperial port. The island is dominated by a striking Neo-Gothic palace built in 1889 under Emperor Pedro II, constructed from granite with imported stained glass and featuring three levels topped by a central tower. The palace became famous as the site of the Baile da Ilha Fiscal on November 9, 1889, the last royal ball of the Brazilian Empire just days before Pedro II was overthrown and the Republic was proclaimed. Today, the island is accessible by boat tours and serves as a naval museum showcasing ship models, navigation instruments, and documents related to Brazil’s maritime history. It opened to public visitors in 1999 and is now one of Rio de Janeiro’s main tourist attractions.