What is the capital city of Brazil? History and architecture of Brasilia
- Rachel
- Aug 14
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 4
Despite many thinking that the capital city of Brazil may be Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo - the capital city of Brazil is actually Brasilia, located in the centre of Brazil. It has held this status since 21 April 1960, when it officially replaced Rio de Janeiro as the federal capital. Located in the Federal District (Distrito Federal) in the central-western region of the country, Brasília was developed specifically to serve as the nation’s capital and to promote the development of Brazil’s interior.
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History of Brasilia: Becoming the Capital City of Brazil
Brasília was designed and built with the intention of being a planned city. The project was led by urban planner Lúcio Costa and architect Oscar Niemeyer, under the administration of President Juscelino Kubitschek. The city was part of a national development plan to move the capital from the coast to a more central location, helping to integrate the country and reduce coastal population concentration. Construction began in 1956, and the city was inaugurated just four years later.
The decision to build Brasília was largely motivated by the need to promote the development of Brazil’s interior and reduce the dominance of coastal cities, especially Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. The federal government hoped that a centralised capital would encourage population distribution and economic development throughout the country.
The city’s inauguration took place on 21 April 1960, marking a historic shift in Brazil's political landscape. At the time, Brasilia was the fulfilment of a bold vision for a modern, efficient and centrally located capital. Despite its young age, it quickly grew into the political heart of Brazil.
Architecture in Brasilia
Brasilia is renowned for its modernist architecture and urban planning, which has earned the city UNESCO World Heritage status in 1987. The master plan of the city, known as Plano Piloto, was designed by urban planner Lúcio Costa and architect Oscar Niemeyer, with input from many other architects and designers. The layout of Brasília is distinctive and follows a grid pattern that aims to separate different functions of the city, such as residential, governmental, commercial and cultural areas.
When viewed from above, the city’s layout resembles the shape of an airplane or bird. The Monumental Axis, which runs from east to west, serves as the backbone of the city, featuring important government buildings like the Palácio do Planalto (Presidential Palace) and the Congresso Nacional (National Congress). The Three Powers Plaza (Praça dos Três Poderes) is the focal point of Brasília, where the executive, legislative and judicial branches of the government are housed.
Oscar Niemeyer’s distinctive architectural style, marked by the use of curves and bold, futuristic designs, is evident in Brasília’s iconic buildings. The Catedral Metropolitana de Brasília, with its sweeping, white concrete spires, is one of the most recognisable symbols of the city. Other notable structures include the Palácio da Alvorada (Palace of Dawn), which serves as the official residence of the President of Brazil, and the Supremo Tribunal Federal (Federal Supreme Court).
Main Attractions in Brasília Today
Brasília is a city of political and cultural significance, with several attractions that highlight its unique design and function as the nation’s capital.
1. The Three Powers Plaza (Praça dos Três Poderes)
This plaza is the heart of the government in Brasília. It is home to the three branches of the Brazilian government: the Palácio do Planalto (Presidential Palace), the Congresso Nacional (National Congress), and the Supremo Tribunal Federal (Federal Supreme Court). The plaza is a symbolic representation of the separation of powers in Brazil’s political system and is a must-visit for those interested in the country’s governance.
2. Catedral Metropolitana de Brasília
Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, the Catedral Metropolitana is one of Brasília’s most iconic buildings. Its striking, futuristic design features 16 concrete spires that form a halo around the building. The cathedral is an architectural masterpiece and a popular tourist attraction, offering a peaceful space for reflection and an impressive visual experience.
3. Palácio da Alvorada
The Palácio da Alvorada, located along the shores of Lake Paranoá, is the official residence of the President of Brazil. The building is a classic example of Niemeyer’s modernist style, with clean lines and open spaces. It is an important symbol of the executive branch of government and offers a glimpse into the country’s political heritage.
4. The JK Bridge (Ponte JK)
One of the most recognisable landmarks in Brasília, the JK Bridge crosses Lake Paranoá and connects the city’s southern and northern regions. Its distinctive design, with three symmetrical white arches, is a popular subject for photography. The bridge is named after President Juscelino Kubitschek, who played a key role in the creation of Brasília.
5. Parque da Cidade (City Park)
A large urban park located in the heart of Brasília, the Parque da Cidade offers residents and tourists a green space for outdoor activities such as jogging, biking, and picnicking. It is one of the largest city parks in the world and is a vital part of the urban landscape, providing a place of relaxation and recreation.
Things to see and do near Brasília
The region surrounding Brasília includes national parks, colonial towns, and natural attractions within driving distance of the city:
Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park: Located about 230 kilometres north of Brasília, this national park is known for hiking trails, waterfalls, and quartz crystal formations. It is part of the Cerrado biome and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pireneus State Park: Located near the town of Pirenópolis, around 150 kilometres from Brasília, this park features the Pireneus Peak and native cerrado vegetation. It offers opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.
Pirenópolis: A colonial town approximately 150 kilometres west of Brasília. It is known for preserved Portuguese architecture, waterfalls in the surrounding area, and local festivals.
Formosa: Located around 80 kilometres northeast of Brasília, Formosa includes natural sites such as the Itiquira Waterfall, Buraco das Araras sinkhole, and Lajedo das Moças cave system.
Águas Lindas de Goiás: Situated about 50 kilometres from Brasília, this municipality includes several natural springs and access to small farms and rural tourism experiences.
Cocalzinho de Goiás: Approximately 130 kilometres from Brasília, this area features caves, springs, and hiking trails. The city is also known as the source of the Corumbá River.
Cristalina: Roughly 130 kilometres south of Brasília, Cristalina is a centre for mining and trade in quartz and other minerals. It offers geological tourism and access to local mines and viewpoints.
Brasília National Forest (Floresta Nacional de Brasília): Located about 10 kilometres from the city centre, this conservation unit provides walking trails and native vegetation from the Cerrado biome.
Lagoa Formosa and Serra do Sobradinho: Located to the west of Brasília, this region includes viewpoints, rock formations, and natural pools, suitable for hiking and exploration.
Paranoá Lake and Its Surroundings: While technically within the Federal District, areas along the shore such as Ermida Dom Bosco and Pontão do Lago Sul offer leisure activities such as stand-up paddle and kayaking.
More resources for planning your trip to Brazil
Find cheap bus, ferry, and private transfer tickets on Bookaway, where you can make reservations ahead of time from abroad. Or, rent a car and give yourself the freedom to explore at your own pace.
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Forgetting something? Read my packing check-list for Brazil, and my list of 10 things you should do before you travel to Brazil