IMS - IMS Poços (House of Culture)

In the heart of the picturesque resort of Poços de Caldas is a remarkable place where history meets modern art — the IMS Poços Cultural Center. This was the first branch of the famous Moreira Salles Institute to open in Brazil, back in 1992. The center is a unique architectural duo: a classic 19th-century Italian chalet harmoniously side-by-side with a modern, snow-white pavilion.

House of Culture (Poços de Caldas). Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

This complex is a true cultural treasure of the region. Covering over 1,000 square meters, it houses exhibition halls, a cozy cinema, and educational spaces. The center’s primary focus is on photography, literature, and music, making it a focal point for intellectuals and art lovers from around the world.

Visitors are drawn not only by the rich program of exhibitions but also by the atmosphere of peace and inspiration. Free admission and high-quality events make this cultural center a must-visit on any traveler's itinerary who wants to see more than just the city's natural beauty.

To check the current event programs or visiting details, you can use the organization’s official contact information.

The main highlight at IMS Poços is the rotating photography exhibitions. Works by iconic Brazilian masters and contemporary artists are frequently on display here. While strolling through the minimalist halls, you can see historical shots capturing the country's past as well as bold avant-garde projects.

Be sure to visit the local cinema hall. It regularly hosts screenings of rare documentaries and feature films that are hard to find in mainstream theaters. The cozy atmosphere and high-quality sound allow you to fully immerse yourself in the magic of cinema, and after the screening, you can discuss what you've seen in the café located in the historic cottage.

Don't miss the chance to chat with the center's staff — they are truly passionate about the history of the Moreira Salles Institute and the details of current exhibitions. For those who appreciate aesthetic details, simply contemplating the architectural contrast between the century-old building and the modern staircase of the facade will be a highlight in itself.

Getting to the cultural center is quite easy, as it is located in the prestigious Jardim dos Estados neighborhood. If you are in the city center of Poços de Caldas, a walk to the destination will take about 20–30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the local streets.

For those who prefer comfort, a taxi or ride-sharing trip from the central squares takes only 10–15 minutes. Travelers from other regions, such as São Paulo, will find it most convenient to arrive by intercity bus, and upon reaching the bus station, take local transport.

Address for navigation: R. Teresópolis, 90. The area boasts good infrastructure and safety, so many tourists choose to rent a car to move freely between the attractions of the state of Minas Gerais.

The history of this place is inextricably linked with the name Walther Moreira Salles — a well-known Brazilian diplomat and banker. In 1992, he founded the non-profit institute (IMS), choosing this charming city as its first location. The opening of the Cultural Center in August 1992 served as the starting point for a nationwide network of cultural centers.

Since the mid-90s, the Instituto Moreira Salles has systematically built its unique collection. Special attention was given to photography, which eventually turned the institute into an international center of expertise in the field. It houses not only photographs but also invaluable literary archives of great Brazilian writers, such as Clarice Lispector.

Notably, the center's architectural ensemble bridges two eras. The administrative wing and the café are located in an elegant 19th-century Italian cottage, while the exhibition halls occupy a modern minimalist building. This symbiosis of old and new highlights the continuity of generations and respect for the region's history.

To explore all the exhibitions at a leisurely pace and soak in the atmosphere, we recommend planning for about 1.5–2 hours. This is sufficient time to see the temporary exhibitions and the architecture of both buildings.

If there is a film screening scheduled on the day of your visit, or if you decide to stop by the local café in the historic chalet, your visit may take longer. Many tourists prefer to linger here to chat with staff or simply sit in the quiet of the modern cultural space.

When planning your visit to the Cultural Center, please note that the center is closed to the public on Mondays. On weekdays, the doors open only in the afternoon, which is perfect for a relaxed cultural break after morning walks around the city.

Opening Hours:

• Tuesday – Friday: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Monday: Closed

After immersing yourself in the world of art at the Cultural Center, it's worth checking out the surrounding locations to make your day in the city even more fulfilling.