Copacabana Palace Hotel

Behind this joyful facade of multi-colored windows is an equally colorful history. Since the early 20th Century, this grand hotel has seen celebrity guests, excessive parties, and even infamous affairs gone wrong. This palatial lodging was erected in what was once a quiet fishing village, and to this day continues to be the life of the party.

Prior to the 20th Century, Copacabana was not the termini of entertainment it is now known as today. An isolated outpost on the water, the area translating to “luminous place” in ancient local language was transformed almost immediately when it was annexed into Rio de Janeiro in 1896. City leaders soon sought the construction of a luxury hotel in the area to boost tourism, and famed hotelier Octávio Guinle was tapped to lead in the project. In 1923, the Copacabana Palace Hotel officially opened its doors on the bright sandy shores, and never looked back.

Designed by Joseph Guire, the hotel’s large auditorium, numerous salons, restaurants, and hundreds of pieces of art and furniture imported from around the world made it a sight to be seen. But beyond all of its luxuries, the nightlight and atmosphere are what put it on the map. The hotel soon became famous for its Copa Ball, the hottest ticket in town during the city’s Carnival celebrations, attracting international celebrities, musicians, and important figures from around the globe. Even the first large-scale public performance of Bossa Nova-style music was played within its walls. In its heyday, guests might spot Walt Disney, Henry Fonda, Jayne Mansfield, and Bing Crosby among others, but not all famous figures enjoyed their stay at the hotel. It was here that Brazilian president Washington Luis was shot in 1928 by his mistress Elvira Vishi Maurich. He lived, but she mysteriously passed away four days later…

Today, the only public drama that plays out at the Copacabana are theatrical performances at its 500-seat theater, built to replace the original casino once gambling was made illegal. However, there’s no short supply of fun or excitement at the beachfront castle. Even the windows seem to be enjoying their stay.

Written By: Seamus McMahon