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The Federal University of Paraná (UFPR) is one of the oldest educational institutions in Brazil. The school occupies an entire block of Curitiba’s town center on one end of Santos Andrade Square (Praça Santos Andrade). Originally a private institution that began in the early 1900s, it became a federal, tuition-free university in 1950. It’s also home to two museums.
During a day of sightseeing in Curitiba, you’ll likely pass by the Federal University of Paraná, known for its stately architecture. Because of this, the university is one of the city’s most photographed buildings, particularly at night thanks to its lighting. However, Santos Andrade Square is not the safest area to explore alone on foot at night. During the day, visit the university's art museum (MusA), which features rotating exhibitions and a permanent collection of paranaense art.
The university also uses several additional buildings throughout Curitiba to house its students and classes.
Entry to the university museums is free.
Santos Andrade Square is quite large and rarely crowded, even in summer.
UFPR’s main campus is at Santos Andrade Square in the center of town. It’s reachable via many bus routes; get off at the Santos Andrade Square station stops. The university is within walking distance of other attractions such as Tiradentes Square, the Palace of Liberty Cultural Center, and Passeio Publico.
UFPR Art Museum (MusA) is open Monday–Friday from morning until early evening, with an hour break for lunch. It’s closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. The Museum of Archeology and Ethnology (MAE) is open Monday–Friday, 9:30am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 6pm, except on public holidays.
Also located in Santos Andrade Square, the Teatro Guaíra Cultural Centre is one of the largest concert halls in Latin America, with a capacity to hold almost 3,000 people. The building houses three auditoriums and is the home of the Paraná Symphony Orchestra and dance groups including Balé Teatro Guaíra, the official ballet company.