Masonic Lavradio Palace

The pink-and-white mansion before you is the Masonic Lavradio Palace. Since 1972, it’s been protected by INEPAC, the State Institute of Cultural Heritage, for its historical importance to Freemasonry during Brazil’s imperial era. Freemasonry is a discreet, mainly philosophical, philanthropic, progressive and humanist institution whose aim is to help its members grow as individuals, ultimately contributing to a better world. Realistically, however, it’s very hard to give a precise and accurate definition of Freemasonry, since each lodge within it has its own unique vision. Brazil’s first Masonic lodge was established way back in 1797. It was banned several times, but grew rapidly and even expanded to Paraguay and Uruguay. Fast forward to 1822, and Brazil sees the founding of its first Grand Lodge, the Grande Oriente do Brasil. A Grand Lodge is an association of several lodges, and the one in Brazil was to leave its mark on the country’s history. Most notably, it stood in opposition to the Catholic clergy, and played an important part in the abolition of slavery, the proclamation of the Republic and Brazil’s fight for independence. The palace you see here originally served as a cultural center, but it eventually fell on hard times and was bought by a group of Freemasons who made it their meeting place. Later on, from 1842 to 1978, the building served as the headquarters of the Grande Oriente do Brasil. After extensive restoration work, it’s now open to the public. It has 11 rooms and as many temples, all adorned with paintings of historical figures with ties to Freemasonry. Dom Pedro I, the Emperor of Brazil, was in fact a Freemason, as were the prime ministers in office at the time of the proclamation of the Republic. And one last thing: Freemasons are fond of symbols! So, put on your detective hat and take a close look at the palace’s exterior. Can you spot any hidden messages within the intricate details?