Cathedral of Brasília
The Cathedral of Brasilia, formally the Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lady Aparecida, is one of the defining works of modernist architecture and a centerpiece of Oscar Niemeyer's planned capital. Completed in 1970, its hyperboloid structure consists of sixteen curving concrete columns, weighing 90 tons each, that sweep upward and outward like hands raised in prayer or the petals of a crown.
The most striking experience is the descent: visitors enter through a dark underground tunnel and emerge into a flood of light beneath a soaring roof of stained glass in blue, green, and white, woven between the columns by artist Marianne Peretti. Three aluminum angels, suspended by steel cables, float overhead, while the structural engineering of Joaquim Cardozo holds the airy space aloft.
Seat of the Archdiocese of Brasilia, the cathedral is both an active place of worship and one of Brazil's most photographed modern landmarks, integral to the UNESCO-listed urban plan of the capital. It draws streams of tourists and faithful alike to experience its luminous, otherworldly interior.
- Location
- -15.7983, -47.8756
- Local time
- 19:37 (America/Sao_Paulo)
🕘 Visiting hours
| Mon | 08:00–17:00 |
| Tue–Fri | 08:00–18:00 |
| Sat | 08:00–17:00 |
| Sun | 08:00–18:00 |
Free admission; hours may be restricted during Mass and events.
✨ Saints & blessed venerated here
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Our Lady of Aparecida Saint
The cathedral is dedicated to her; a replica of her image is enshrined inside
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Saint Matthew the Evangelist Saint
One of the four 3m bronze Evangelist statues by Ceschiatti and Croce (1968-70) in the plaza
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Saint Mark the Evangelist Saint
One of the four bronze Evangelist statues by Ceschiatti and Croce in the plaza
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Saint Luke the Evangelist Saint
One of the four bronze Evangelist statues by Ceschiatti and Croce in the access plaza
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Saint John the Evangelist Saint
One of the four bronze Evangelist statues by Ceschiatti and Croce at the entrance
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Saint Mary (Virgin Mary) Saint
Scenes from the life of Mary painted by Athos Bulcão on a pillar at the entrance
Care & donations
Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Brasília
Accepts donations; free entry to the cathedral
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