As the 2014 World Cup gathers steam, Brazilian football legend Pelé has opened a museum in the city of Santos, housing exhibits from his glittering career.

The museum, formerly the location of Santos Town Hall, was unveiled on the fourth day of the World Cup. The 4,000sq m (43,000sq ft) complex cost R$49m (US$22m, €16.2m, £13m) and houses more than 2,5000 items from Pelé’s career, including trophies, football kits and images of him with world leaders and celebrities.

Christened Edson Arantes do Nascimento, Pelé arrived at Santos aged 15 and joined the local team, winning his first World Cup trophy just two-years later at 17. Between 1956 and 1974, the man considered to be the greatest ever footballer led Brazil to three World Cup titles.

"He (Pelé) is part of our cultural history. He is a reference, a symbol that every Brazilian is proud to follow," said Anna Beatriz Ayroza Galvao of Sao Paulo's Brazilian heritage department. "He is an example for everyone."

"I thank God he granted me health to be able to receive this honour today," said the 73-year-old Pelé, who brought the Brazilian style to the forefront of world football.

"When I played in the 1958 cup nobody knew Brazil, now we're getting the cup of all cups and all eyes are on us here."