Brasília was pre-conceived and planned with an architectural design in the shape of a plane, which makes it differ from everything you have ever seen. On the 21st of this month, Brasília celebrates 57 years. More than beautiful, the capital of Brazil is an indispensable stop for any tourist itinerary.
The Center of Power
When you arrive at the Praça dos Três Poderes, you will understand how the country works. The local Constitution states that the Three Powers (Executive, Legislative and Judiciary) are independent and harmonic among themselves. You can visit the head-quarters of each of them.
Nearby you will find one of the most magnificent pearls of local architecture: the Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida. It is made up of 16 concrete columns that support unique and beautiful stained glass windows. The view from inside can be even more stunning. The altar was donated by Pope João Paulo VI and the via crucis is signed by the famous modernist painter Di Cavalcanti. Without a doubt, it is one of the most culturally enriching trips of the capital.
Another must see attraction, the Honestino Guimarães National Museum is very easy to be located: it is very close to the bus station, and its dome shaped architecture, draws attention. Thanks to this space, Brasília joined the international art circuit.
At night, a great choice is the Asa Norte, where there are bars to suit all audiences. The blocks 408 and 409 are notorious to house some of them and they tend to be busy because of the good food, interesting cocktails and varied music.
The Highest Part of Brasília
The Lady Sarah Kubitschek City Park is the largest and most famous outdoor leisure center. There you will find 4.2km of green area with sport courts, cycling and walking tracks, an amusement park, an equestrian center and even a gokart track.
There, near the park, at the Monumental Axis, is the JK Memorial, a museum dedicated to the former President Juscelino Kubitschek, founder of Brasília. Homage to Juscelino Kubitschek is more than deserved, since he moved the capital and government head-quarters from the coast to the central region of the country. In the exterior part of the Museum, there are works from the Brazilian painter and sculptor Athos Bulcão. Inside, part of the legacy of JK is preserved, apart from his remains.
In the heart of Brasília, you will find the TV Tower. It is worth visiting the observatory, which is 75 meters from the ground. From there, the view of Brasília’s architecture is complete. Go up the elevator and see the Esplanada dos Ministérios, the Setores Hoteleiros Norte e Sul, the Brasília National Stadium, the Autódromo Nelson Piquet, the Lago Paranoá and even other administrative regions.
Finish the day with a beer at Pontão at Lago Sul. Pontão is located near to the Honestino Guimarães Bridge. This place has several options for bars and restaurants.
Source: Embratur, visitbrasil.com