the architecture is dominated mostly by colonial buildings that have, overtime, been renovated in order to serve a new purpose, including but not limited to accommodation - in 1984 a project cultural corridor in rio was approved and led to the preservation of these historical buildings.

the neighborhood maintains its history through buildings as well as through cultural events, such as the antique fair held every first saturday of the month - another iconic attraction is the famous bondinho, or yellow tram, operating since 1877 runs through lapa via the top of the carioca aqueducts (white arches), and up to santa teresa.