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Museu Histórico de Brasília: A Capital's Story

Explore the history of Brazil's capital at the Museu Histórico de Brasília, designed by Oscar Niemeyer and located in the Three Powers Plaza.

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The Museu Histórico de Brasília (Brasilia Historical Museum), also known as the Museu da Cidade (City Museum), is the oldest museum in the capital, inaugurated on the same day as the city itself, April 21, 1960. Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, it preserves the history of Brasília's construction and its significance as the new capital.

A brief summary to Museu Histórico de Brasília

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the exhibits.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the Praça dos Três Poderes to fully appreciate the architectural ensemble.
  • Check for temporary exhibitions or cultural events that may be taking place during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the central area of Praça dos Três Poderes, the Museu Histórico de Brasília is easily accessible on foot. Simply walk towards the central area of the plaza, keeping an eye out for the distinct architecture of the museum. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    From Brasília's city center, take a bus to the Praça dos Três Poderes. Several bus lines serve this area. Once at the plaza, the museum is a short walk away. A one-way public transport ticket costs approximately R$5.54.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Brasília. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Museu Histórico de Brasília at Praça dos Três Poderes will typically cost between R$15 and R$30, depending on traffic and the specific starting point.

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Discover more about Museu Histórico de Brasília

The Museu Histórico de Brasília, located in the iconic Praça dos Três Poderes (Three Powers Plaza), offers a glimpse into the planning and construction of Brazil's modern capital. Designed by the renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer, the museum itself is a historical landmark, marking the official transfer of the capital from Rio de Janeiro to Brasília. The museum's exhibits showcase the history of Brasília's creation, featuring historical inscriptions in Portuguese, English, and Braille. These texts detail the key events and figures involved in the city's development. The building's architecture harmonizes with the surrounding governmental structures, including the Palácio do Planalto and the Supremo Tribunal Federal, creating a unique cultural landscape. Inside, visitors can explore the permanent exhibition, which includes 16 texts engraved with information about the history of the transfer of Brazil's capital. The museum also features a tactile model for visually impaired visitors. The Museu Histórico de Brasília is managed by the State Department of Culture of the Federal District.

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