Cultural Center of the Amazon Bank is inaugurated with an exhibition on Nelson Mandela and free access for the public
New space, installed in the historic building of Basa, reinforces the Amazonian identity and expands cultural options in Belém
The Government of Pará participated, on the night of this Thursday (9), in the inauguration of the Cultural Center of the Amazon Bank, in Belém. Installed in the historic building of Basa, on Presidente Vargas Avenue, the new space will offer free programming aimed at valuing art, culture, and Amazonian identity, with a modern structure accessible to the public.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Governor Helder Barbalho, First Lady Daniela Barbalho, the president of the Amazon Bank, Luiz Lessa, as well as authorities, representatives from the cultural sector, and guests.
Space marks a new moment for Amazonian culture
During the event, Governor Helder Barbalho emphasized the center's role as a cultural reference in the capital of Pará and a point for valuing Amazonian diversity.
“Today Belém gains another cultural space, reaffirming its role as the capital of the Amazon. It is a celebration of our diversity and the strength of Pará's culture, which needs to be shown to Brazil and the world,” highlighted the governor.
Helder also pointed out the importance of the initiative in the current context of social and economic transformation in Pará, with the capital preparing to host, in November, the 30th United Nations Conference on Climate Change (COP30).
“The Amazon Bank, by promoting this initiative, shows a connection with our people and a commitment to social development. Culture is an essential part of this process. We are on the eve of Círio and we continue together building a new time for Pará, for Belém, and for all of the Amazon. Long live Basa. Long live Pará's culture,” he added.
Exhibition on Nelson Mandela opens the center's programming
The opening program was marked by the debut of the exhibition “Mandela – Global Icon of Reconciliation,” promoted by the Brazil Africa Institute (IBRAF) in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation from South Africa. The exhibition features 50 photographic panels and an audiovisual installation, narrating the journey of Nelson Mandela – from childhood to the fight against apartheid, the 27 years of imprisonment, and his election as the first black president of South Africa.
Commitment to the development of the region
For the president of the Amazon Bank, Luiz Lessa, the new space symbolizes an important advancement in the social role of the institution, which had maintained a small exhibition room for over two decades.
“We moved from a 40 square meter room to inaugurate a cultural center worthy of what the Amazon Bank represents for the region. Fulfilling our mission is not just about granting credit. Bringing development to the Amazon also involves investing in culture, in social aspects, and in valuing our identity,” he stated.
The cultural center houses an art gallery, library, and reading area, and is structured to host national and international exhibitions.
Operation - In October, the Cultural Center of the Amazon Bank will operate from Monday to Friday, from 2 PM to 8 PM. In November, during the COP30 period, the space will be open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 7 PM.
Service
Cultural Center of the Amazon Bank
Address: Avenida Presidente Vargas, historic building of Basa – Belém (PA)
Operating hours:
October: Monday to Friday, from 2 PM to 8 PM
November: Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 7 PM
Free entry.
