Brasília

Brasília is the capital of Brazil and one of the most remarkable planned cities of the 20th century. The city has a population estimated at 3,010,980 inhabitants (2026 estimate). Founded in 1960, Brasília was built to promote the development of Brazil’s interior and replace Rio de Janeiro as the national capital. The city was designed by urban planner Lúcio Costa, while many of its iconic modernist buildings were created by architect Oscar Niemeyer.

Because of its innovative architecture and urban planning, Brasília was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Among its most notable landmarks are the futuristic Cathedral of Brasília, the monumental National Congress of Brazil, and the scenic Paranoá Lake. Although relatively young compared with other Brazilian cities, Brasília has produced several notable public figures and artists, including actresses Patrícia Pillar, Murilo Rosa, and journalist Poliana Abritta. Today, Brasília functions as Brazil’s political center and a major administrative hub.