Praça do Cruzeiro, Cerrado Travel Guide

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Discover the origins of Brasília at Praça do Cruzeiro, a historic square offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's past.

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Praça do Cruzeiro

Praça do Cruzeiro, or 'Cruzeiro Square,' marks the spot where the future capital of Brazil, Brasília, was first envisioned. Located on one of the highest points in the city, it offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's pioneering past.

A brief summary to Praça do Cruzeiro

Zona Cívico-Administrativa, Brasilia, Srg., Federal District, BR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Praça do Cruzeiro.

Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
Check local listings for events or festivals happening during your visit.
Bring a camera to capture the views of Brasília's modernist architecture.

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Explore Praça do Cruzeiro on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Praça do Cruzeiro, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Brasília's central bus station (Rodoviária), take a bus that goes to 'Via N1 | Memorial JK / Praça do Cruzeiro'. Several bus lines serve this route, including 0.025, 0.199 and 0.382. After arriving at the bus stop, you'll need to walk a short distance to the square, following the signs. The bus fare is R$5.54.
Taxi/Ride-share

For a direct route, use a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber. Enter 'Praça do Cruzeiro, Zona Cívico-Administrativa' as your destination. The cost will vary depending on your starting point, but a trip from the city center should cost between R$30 to R$50.
Walking

If you are near the Esplanada dos Ministérios, head towards the JK Memorial. Praça do Cruzeiro is located behind the Memorial. Continue walking, and you will reach your destination.

Discover more about Praça do Cruzeiro

Praça do Cruzeiro holds a special place in the history of Brasília, predating the city itself. In February 1955, Marshal José Pessoa, head of the commission tasked with choosing the location for the new capital, visited the Central Plateau. He and his team ascended to the highest point of one of the sites, which they named 'Sítio Castanho'.This location, later to be known as Praça do Cruzeiro, offered a vantage point to survey the vast construction site that would become Brasília. The square's name comes from the wooden cross (cruzeiro) erected there to mark the spot. In May 1955, the site was officially christened, and the cross became a symbol of the city's founding. Juscelino Kubitschek, then President, considered this cross the true cornerstone of the city.Before the urban plan by Lucio Costa and the architecture of Oscar Niemeyer, the square held immense importance. Over time, as attention shifted to the city's modern design, Praça do Cruzeiro faded somewhat into obscurity. Today, the square provides a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy green spaces, monuments, and sculptures. The square also hosts cultural events and festivals.