Maletta Building stores treasures of fashion, literature, and games
The Edifício Arcângelo Maletta in Belo Horizonte is a cultural landmark filled with shops that offer unique fashion items, literature, and collectibles.
The Edifício Arcângelo Maletta, located at the intersection of Avenida Augusto de Lima and Rua da Bahia in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, has been a significant cultural hub since the founding of the city. Originally the site of the Grande Hotel, which hosted many artists like Oswald de Andrade and Tarsila do Amaral, the building, inaugurated in the 1960s, is now a beloved icon. Its history is palpable in the various vintage items and artistic collections available in the diverse commercial shops that occupy the space.
Visitors to the Maletta Building are treated to a treasure trove of unique finds, ranging from clothing that encapsulates different eras to books that carry the weight of history. The building is a favorite destination for those who enjoy 'garimpar'—a Brazilian term that refers to the act of searching for valuable or rare items. This eclectic mix of offerings reflects the rich cultural landscape of Belo Horizonte and the enduring appeal of the Maletta as a center of artistic and historical significance.
Among the stories that emerge from the Maletta, the experiences of people like journalist Terêncio de Oliveira stand out. He reminisces about his childhood visits to the Maletta, initially for its gastronomic offerings, but later discovering its literary gems. The building not only serves as a marketplace for treasures but also as a repository of memories, connecting past to present through its diverse cultural expressions.