Museum of Tomorrow (Museu do Amanhã)

Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil

The Museum of Tomorrow, or Museu do Amanhã, is a bold and visionary science museum located at Pier Mauá in Rio de Janeiro. Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava and inaugurated in December 2015, the museum stands as a symbol of innovation and sustainability. Its futuristic structure, with sweeping curves and cantilevered wings, appears to float above a reflecting pool, evoking the image of a ship or bird poised for flight.

This architectural marvel is part of the larger revitalization of Rio’s port area and was a centerpiece of the city’s cultural transformation ahead of the 2016 Olympics. Inside, the museum offers a multimedia journey through five thematic areas: Cosmos, Earth, Anthropocene, Tomorrow, and Us. These immersive exhibits explore the origins of the universe, the evolution of life, the impact of human activity on the planet, and the possibilities for a sustainable future.

Rather than showcasing static artifacts, the Museum of Tomorrow invites visitors to engage with questions about where we come from, who we are, and where we are headed as a species. It blends science, art, and technology to provoke reflection and inspire action toward a more equitable and ecologically responsible world.

The museum’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its exhibits. Its design incorporates energy efficiency, natural ventilation, and a water filtration system that draws from Guanabara Bay.