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Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida: A Modernist Masterpiece

Discover Brasília's iconic cathedral, a modernist masterpiece by Oscar Niemeyer, with stunning architecture and spiritual significance.

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The Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida, or Brasília Cathedral, is an iconic modernist cathedral designed by Oscar Niemeyer. Its hyperboloid structure, composed of sixteen striking concrete columns, creates a captivating visual experience, symbolizing hands reaching towards heaven. A must-see landmark in Brazil's capital.

A brief summary to Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning to witness the sunlight streaming through the stained-glass windows, creating a magical atmosphere.
  • Take a guided tour to learn about the cathedral's history, architectural significance, and the art within.
  • Admire the bronze sculptures of the Four Evangelists in the plaza leading to the cathedral entrance.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Brasília International Airport (BSB), take the bus to the Rodoviária bus station in the city center. Look for routes that stop at Esplanada dos Ministérios. From there, the cathedral is a short walk away. Bus fare is approximately R$3.80.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From Brasília International Airport (BSB), a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber or 99 is a direct option. Input 'Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida' as the destination. The ride is about 12 minutes and costs between R$45-R$60.

  • Car

    If driving, set your GPS to Esplanada dos Ministérios lote 12, Brasília. Follow signs for Esplanada dos Ministérios. Parking is available near the cathedral, with fees typically ranging from R$5 to R$10 for a few hours.

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Discover more about Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida

The Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida, dedicated to Our Lady of Aparecida, the patron saint of Brazil, stands as a powerful symbol of faith and architectural innovation in Brasília. Designed by the renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer, it was the first monument created in Brasília, with its foundation stone laid in 1958. The cathedral's structure was completed in 1960, but it officially opened on May 31, 1970. Niemeyer, though an atheist, created a space that evokes religious emotion, describing the cathedral as a "religious idea, a moment of worship". The building covers a circular area with a diameter of 70 meters. Sixteen curved concrete columns form a hyperboloid structure, each weighing 90 tons and reaching 42 meters high, representing hands reaching towards the heavens. The bases of the columns are narrow, creating an impression of lightness. Visitors enter through a dark tunnel, a design choice intended to heighten the impact of the light-filled interior. Inside, the nave is bathed in light streaming through stained glass windows designed by Marianne Peretti. Suspended from the ceiling are three angel sculptures created by Alfredo Ceschiatti. The baptistery features a ceramic tile panel painted by Athos Bulcão in 1977. The bell tower houses four large bells donated by Spain. The square outside the cathedral features bronze sculptures of the four evangelists, also by Ceschiatti. The cathedral can accommodate up to four thousand people.

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