Established in 1990, the Casa França-Brasil is housed in the former customs house (1819). This elegant building, designed by architect Grandjean de Montigny, was commissioned by the King of Portugal, João VI, in a bid to add some kudos to the city where he had settled. In 1821 crowds gathered here to demand that the court reside permanently in Rio, a key step on the country's march towards independence. Concerts, exhibitions, theatre are programmed by the centre.