“African Languages That Make Brazil”: Museu Vale Presents in Vitória the Acclaimed Exhibition from the Museum of the Portuguese Language

The traveling exhibition African Languages That Make Brazil has arrived in Vitória, the capital of the state of Espírito Santo, as part of a partnership between the Museu Vale and the Museum of the Portuguese Language. After achieving record attendance of more than 240,000 visitors in São Paulo, the exhibition is now on view at the Palácio Anchieta, headquarters of the state government.

Curated by musician and philosopher Tiganá Santana, the exhibition examines the presence and influence of African languages in the shaping of Brazilian culture. According to Santana, “in the case of Espírito Santo, which has a strong African presence and significant Bantu heritage, it is especially meaningful that this exhibition, in its first traveling edition, takes place in a state known for its congo traditions and numerous Afro-Brazilian cultural manifestations.”

In addition to all the works included in the original São Paulo presentation, the touring version features what Santana described as a “luxurious addition”: the participation of three artists from Espírito Santo —Castiel Vitorino Brasileiro, Natan Dias, and Jaíne Muniz— whose contributions deepen the connection between the exhibition and local cultural contexts, expanding the dialogue around identity, language, and memory.

Organized through a collaboration between the Museu Vale and the Museum of the Portuguese Language, African Languages That Make Brazil highlights the linguistic and cultural diversity that has shaped Brazil’s identity, emphasizing the African heritage that continues to influence the country’s music, traditions, thought, and everyday expressions.

The exhibition is open to the public at the Palácio Anchieta (Praça João Clímaco, s/n, Centro, Vitória - ES) until December 14, 2025.
Visiting hours: Tuesday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission is free.