increasing recognition and appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the favelas of rio has gained momentum world wide. locals and visitors have a strong appetite for art and music flourishing in these unique neighborhoods - to meet the demand the communities are responding by establishing various cultural centers and programs.

rocinha has the museu da rocinha  (museum of rocinha)  dedicated to the history of the neighborhood and its struggle for development and integration.

the maré museum (museu da maré) is dedicated to the preservation and divulgation of the community's history.  said to be one of the first museums ever to be created inside a favela,  this institution uses  photos, documents, and every-day objects to tell the story of life and struggle in the complex da maré.