originally called 'ilha dos ratos' (mice island), the name changed when, in the 19th century a customhouse was built on the island, to administrate the local port and trade activities.

in the words of the emperor dom pedro ii, the place and the functions were of such esteem to be called a 'shining pearl' (uma brilhante pérola), and it was decided to build a small gothic-styled chateau.

designed by adolpho del vecchio, its construction started in 1881 and finished in 1889. with its characteristic look, the building quickly became a postcard image for the guanabra bay, sporting one of the most easily recognizable façades in rio de janeiro.