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Santuário São João Bosco: A Beacon of Blue Light

Experience the divine blue light of Brasília's iconic Santuário São João Bosco, a masterpiece of faith and modern architecture.

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The Santuário São João Bosco is a stunning Catholic church in Brasília, Brazil, famed for its soaring architecture and breathtaking blue stained-glass windows. Dedicated to Saint John Bosco, the sanctuary offers a serene escape and a unique visual experience.

A brief summary to Santuário São João Bosco

  • Quadra 702 Sul Bloco B, SHCS, Brasilia, Asa Sul, Federal District, BR
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the most beautiful natural light through the stained-glass windows.
  • Dress modestly, as the Santuário São João Bosco is an active place of worship.
  • Take your time to explore the surrounding gardens for a peaceful stroll and moments of reflection.
  • Check the schedule for mass times if you wish to participate in a service during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Brasília's central bus terminal (Rodoviária do Plano Piloto), take a bus heading towards Asa Sul. Several bus lines, such as 1000 or 1010, service the area. The ticket costs approximately R$ 5.54. Get off at the stop closest to Quadra 702 Sul. The Santuário São João Bosco is a short walk from the bus stop, located at Quadra 702 Sul Bloco B.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Brasília. A taxi ride from the city center (e.g., near the TV Tower) to the Santuário São João Bosco typically costs between R$40 and R$50, depending on traffic and time of day. Ensure the driver resets the taximeter before starting the trip. Ride-sharing apps like Uber or 99 are also popular and offer similar pricing.

  • Walking

    If you are staying in the Asa Sul neighborhood, consider walking to the Santuário São João Bosco. From Parque da Cidade, head towards SHCS (Setor Habitacional Cidade Satélite) and continue straight until you reach Quadra 702 Sul. The sanctuary is located at Bloco B within that quad. The walk should take approximately 15-20 minutes.

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Discover more about Santuário São João Bosco

The Santuário São João Bosco, also known as Santuário Dom Bosco, stands as a testament to faith and architectural innovation in Brasília. Designed by Carlos Alberto Naves, the sanctuary is dedicated to Saint John Bosco, an Italian saint who prophesied the existence of Brasília in the 19th century. The church's design seamlessly blends modernist principles with spiritual symbolism, creating a serene and awe-inspiring environment. The sanctuary is most famous for its stunning blue stained-glass windows. Comprising 7,400 pieces of Murano glass in 12 shades of blue, the windows bathe the interior in a celestial blue light, evoking the sky and the divine. The effect is particularly striking at sunset when the light creates a magical atmosphere. A massive chandelier, crafted from 7,400 pieces of Murano glass and weighing 3,000 kg, hangs in the center of the sanctuary, adding to the visual spectacle. Beyond the windows, the sanctuary features 12 bronze doors sculpted by Gianfrancesco Cerri, depicting the life of Dom Bosco. The altar is adorned with a striking eight-meter-tall crucifix carved from a single cedar trunk, along with statues of Dom Bosco and Our Lady Help of Christians. In 2017, a crypt was added to house a relic of Dom Bosco—a piece of bone from his right arm—providing a tranquil space for reflection and prayer. Open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, the Santuário São João Bosco welcomes visitors of all faiths to experience its beauty and tranquility. Admission is free, and donations are appreciated. The sanctuary is located in the Asa Sul neighborhood, easily accessible by public transportation, taxi, or car.

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