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Praça dos Três Poderes: Brazil's Democratic Heart

Visit Praça dos Três Poderes in Brasília: a fusion of modernist architecture, Brazilian history, and the heart of the nation's democratic ideals.

Praça dos Três Poderes (Three Powers Plaza) in Brasília is a monumental square where Brazil's executive, legislative, and judicial branches converge. Designed by Lúcio Costa and Oscar Niemeyer, it's a striking display of modernist architecture and a symbol of Brazilian democracy.

A brief summary to Eixo Monumental S1 - Praça dos Três Poderes, Área C (Supremo Tribunal Federal)

  • Praça dos Três Poderes, Brasilia, Brasília, Federal District, BR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography and more comfortable temperatures.
  • The Palácio do Planalto is open to the public for tours on Sundays.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll want to explore the plaza and its surroundings on foot.
  • Check the schedule for public events or demonstrations that may be taking place during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Praça dos Três Poderes via public transport, the closest Metro station is 'Central'. From the station, walk east along the Eixo Monumental (the main avenue) for approximately 1.5 kilometers. You will see the iconic government buildings and the National Congress on your right. Continue until you reach Praça dos Três Poderes. Metro tickets cost R$5.50.

  • Bus

    Several bus lines connect to Praça dos Três Poderes. Look for buses heading towards the Esplanada dos Ministérios, such as lines 111, 112, or 113. Get off at the stop labeled 'Praça dos Três Poderes'. Bus fares are approximately R$3.80.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Brasília. A taxi from the Brasília Airport (BSB) to Praça dos Três Poderes is about R$45 and takes approximately 20 minutes. A ride from Taguatinga to Praça dos Três Poderes will cost approximately R$75 - R$95.

  • Walking

    If you are already on the Esplanada dos Ministérios, Praça dos Três Poderes is located at the far eastern end, behind the National Congress building. Simply walk east towards the National Congress, and the plaza will be directly behind it.

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Discover more about Eixo Monumental S1 - Praça dos Três Poderes, Área C (Supremo Tribunal Federal)

Praça dos Três Poderes, or Three Powers Plaza, stands as a testament to Brazil's modern capital, Brasília, and the harmonious (though sometimes turbulent) balance of its government. Inaugurated on April 21, 1960, the plaza was designed by urban planner Lúcio Costa and architect Oscar Niemeyer to be the central point where the three branches of the Brazilian government—Executive, Legislative, and Judiciary—would meet. The plaza is bordered by iconic buildings, each representing a branch of government. The Palácio do Planalto, with its elegant white curved columns, is the office of the President. The National Congress, featuring two distinct domes (one concave, one convex) and twin towers, houses the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies. The Supreme Federal Court completes the trio, its design mirroring the Planalto Palace with a colonnade. Beyond the architecture, the plaza is home to monuments that reflect Brazil's history and culture. The most recognizable is the sculpture *Os Candangos* (The Warriors) by Bruno Giorgi, a tribute to the workers who built Brasília. The plaza also features the Justice sculpture by Alfredo Ceschiatti, a blindfolded Lady Justice. A massive Brazilian flag, one of the largest in the world to be continuously flown, dominates the square, symbolizing national pride. The flag is replaced monthly in a formal ceremony. Praça dos Três Poderes is more than just a collection of buildings and monuments; it's a living space where Brazilian democracy plays out. It has been the site of presidential inaugurations, public demonstrations, and even, on occasion, turmoil. Despite occasional unrest, the plaza remains a powerful symbol of Brazil's aspirations for progress and its commitment to a balanced and democratic society.

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