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Palácio Itamaraty: Brazil's Palace of Arches

A modernist masterpiece in Brasília, the Palácio Itamaraty showcases stunning architecture, art, and the heart of Brazilian diplomacy.

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The Palácio Itamaraty, also known as the Palace of the Arches, is the headquarters of Brazil's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Brasília. Designed by the renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer and inaugurated in 1970, this modernist masterpiece is celebrated for its iconic concrete arches, floating gardens, and integration of art and architecture.

A brief summary to Palácio Itamaraty

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes to explore the extensive gardens and interior spaces.
  • Check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and tour schedules.
  • Consider visiting during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
  • Note that visits are conducted by educators designated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and schedules may change due to unforeseen circumstances.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Palácio Itamaraty via public transport, take the metro to the Central Station. From there, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to the palace, located in the Zona Cívico-Administrativa BL H. The metro ticket costs R$5.50. Alternatively, numerous buses serve the Esplanada dos Ministérios, providing access to the palace. Bus fares are around R$4.00-5.54.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    A taxi or ride-sharing service (such as Uber) offers a direct route to Palácio Itamaraty. Simply enter 'Palácio Itamaraty' as your destination. From the city center, the ride should take approximately 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between R$10 and R$20. Keep in mind that taxi fares are calculated based on time and distance, with a base fee of around R$4.08 and a cost per kilometer of approximately R$2.22 during the day.

  • Walking

    From the Three Powers Plaza, walk east along the Ministries Esplanade. The Palácio Itamaraty is located on the Esplanade, near the Ministry of Justice. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes, offering views of other significant government buildings.

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Discover more about Palácio Itamaraty

The Palácio Itamaraty stands as a symbol of Brazilian modern architecture and diplomatic vision. Designed by Oscar Niemeyer and opened in 1970, it serves as the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The palace is often referred to as the "Palace of the Arches" (Palácio dos Arcos) due to its striking colonnade of exposed concrete arches that surround the building, creating a memorable visual rhythm. The palace's design reflects Niemeyer's signature style, emphasizing flowing lines, open spaces, and the integration of art. A large reflecting pool surrounds the building, enhancing the sense of lightness and creating a serene environment. Tropical plants dot the pool, adding a touch of Brazilian flora to the architectural composition. Bruno Giorgi's sculpture, Meteoro, carved from a single four-ton block of Carrara marble, sits in the water garden, complementing the building's design. The interior of the Palácio Itamaraty is equally impressive, featuring a column-free main hall spanning 220 square meters and a sweeping spiral staircase. The walls are adorned with embossed marble by Athos Bulcão, and the gardens were designed by Burle Marx, showcasing plants from the Amazon region. The palace also houses an extensive collection of Brazilian art, including works by Portinari, Manabu Mabe, and Alfredo Volpi. Visitors can view Princess Isabel's desk, where she signed the Lei Áurea, abolishing slavery in Brazil in 1888. Beyond its architectural and artistic significance, the Palácio Itamaraty plays a crucial role in Brazil's diplomatic activities, hosting foreign dignitaries and serving as a venue for important state events.

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