Brasilia

Distinguished by its white concrete, modern

architecture, chiefly designed by Oscar

Niemeyer.

The Cathedral of Brasilia

A modern Roman Catholic cathedral defined by its hyperboloid structure, which starts out wide at the base, curves inwards and then extends outwards at the top. It’s made up of 16 concrete columns with a transparent glass roof. Access is from a slope into the underground level. The design was inspired by the imagery of two hands extending upwards, fingers splayed, towards heaven.

The Three Powers Square

The site of the National Congress (the seat of legislation), the Planalto Palace (headquarters of executive administration) and the Supreme Federal Court (the seat of judicial authority). These buildings are all distinctive, combining their official nature with a touch of design innovation. A 224 m²  Brazilian Flag flies on the site.

Itamaraty Palace

Also known as the Palace of the Arches, is the Ministry of External Relations of Brazil, designed by Oscar Niemeyer. The word "Itamaraty" is a word originating from the Nheengatu language. According to Navarro, it means "river of small stones", by joining ita (stone), Bantam (small) and ty (river).

Os candangos

Bruno Giorgi's monumental bronze sculpture known as Os Guerreiros (The Warriors) or Os Candangos was created in 1959 and measures 8 meters tall. It is the centerpiece of Brazil's governmental plaza, Three Powers Plaza. Os Candangos was erected to pay homage to the thousands of workers who built Brasilia. The sculpture has become the symbol of the city.

Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge

Commonly called the JK Bridge, it connects the eastern shore of Lake Paranoá to Brasília's city center, via the Monumental Axis. Opened to traffic on December 15, 2002, its distinctive silhouette quickly became a Brasília landmark. Apparently, it resembles the skimming of a stone across the water. The bridge is named after President Juscelino Kubitschek, who served from 1956 to 1961, and is generally considered the main figure supporting the construction of the planned city of Brasília.

Army headquarters and Theatre

Another work of art by Oscan Niemeyer, with a beautiful facade, a stunning dome and special acoustics (just try clapping your hands ...). Alongside the Army headquarters is the Army Theatre.  

Empty Roads in the Capital! Initially, the roads were heavily congested as everyone had the afternoon off to watch Brazil play in the 2018 World Cup. However, by 3pm the roads were empty!

Brasilia, the Capital Brazil's capital relocated from overcrowded Rio de Janeiro to the planned, built city of Brasilia in 1960. Prior to this the area was barren, arid desert. It’s remarkable that Brasilia is now home to almost 3 million inhabitants and is the fourth largest city in Brazil. Apparently, it is laid out in the shape of an airplane, its “fuselage” is the Monumental Axis, 2 wide avenues flanking a massive park. In the “cockpit” is Praça dos Três Poderes, named for the 3 branches of government surrounding it. Brasilia is the only city that was founded during the 20th century that has been awarded the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The criteria for this esteemed title are strict, bearing testimony to the innovation and creativity of this modern city.

Palacio da Alvorada The official home of the President of Brazil covers 7,000 square metres. Its designer, Oscar Niemeyer, used glass extensively, to give the palace an open, modern look and feel. There are rheas roaming in the grounds.

All images © Nova Fisher, novatravels.net