Brasília Will Knock You Off Your Feet with Its Modern Palaces

MUSEU Nacional da República, Brasília, Brazil.
MUSEU Nacional da República, Brasília, Brazil. Photo by Daniel Costa on Unsplash

Contemporary architecture is one of the things that Brasília is best known for, and even its palaces look straight out of a sci-fi movie. The Brazilian capital is home to many palaces, but don’t expect to stumble upon any fairy tale castle because they’re as modern as it gets.

Alvorada Palace

This palace serves as the official residence of the president of Brazil, and it’s been around since 1958. It’s one of many buildings in Brasília designed by the iconic architect Oscar Niemeyer, and it’s instantly recognizable thanks to its symmetrical columns and white walls covered with glass.  

Planalto Palace

Alvorada isn’t the only presidential palace in Brasília designed by Niemeyer. Planalto serves as the official workplace of the president of Brazil, and it’s been inaugurated just two years later. We wouldn’t blame you if you confused this palace with Alvorada because they look alike and feature many of the same architectural elements.

Itamaraty Palace

Another modern palace designed by Niemeyer, Itamaraty serves as the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It’s best known for its marble walls, wide arches, and spiral staircase, and it’s one of Brasília’s marvels of modern architecture.