Brazil National Museum rallies to rebuild 1 year after fire

RIO DE JANEIRO — One year after Brazil’s National Museum went up in flames, management and researchers say they are recuperating 35% of the collection and are beginning reconstruction of the building’s facade and roof.

On the anniversary of the fire, the National Museum opened a new exhibition on Monday in a partner institution with 11 artifacts that were recovered from the fire.

“It’s time to turn the page,” said Alexander Kellner, the museum’s director, who reported that they are aiming to fully reopen the museum before the 200th anniversary of Brazilian independence in 2022.

Among the items recovered are a 19th century samurai shield and mask, ancient Egyptian statues, and pre-Columbian ceramics from Peru. The vice co-ordinator of recuperation says 46% of the collection was destroyed. Another 19% was in another building.

The Associated Press