The Catedral Metropolitana de São Paulo, located in the city of São Paulo, is a stunning example of brutalist architecture. Designed by architect Oscar Niemeyer and completed in 1972, the cathedral features 16 concrete pillars that tower over 200 feet high. The interior of the cathedral is just as impressive, with stained glass windows that depict the life of Saint Paul and a massive bronze sculpture of the crucified Christ by artist Alfredo Ceschiatti.
The Museu Nacional de Belas Artes
The Museu Nacional de Belas Artes, located in Rio de Janeiro, is the oldest art museum in Brazil. Built in the early 1900s, the museum’s architecture is a mix of neoclassical and art nouveau styles. The collection inside ranges from Brazilian art to international works, with pieces from the likes of Picasso and Monet. The museum is also home to a beautiful sculpture garden, which is a tranquil oasis in the bustling city of Rio de Janeiro.
The Teatro Amazonas
The Teatro Amazonas, located in Manaus, is a beautiful example of the Renaissance Revival style. The theater was built in the late 1800s during the height of the rubber boom, and no expense was spared in its construction. The exterior of the building is covered in decorative tiles imported from Europe, while the interior is adorned with chandeliers, marble staircases, and murals. The theater is still in use today and is a popular destination for visitors to Manaus.
The Palácio Gustavo Capanema
The Palácio Gustavo Capanema, located in Rio de Janeiro, is a landmark in the history of Brazilian architecture. Designed by a team of modernist architects in the 1940s, the building was revolutionary in its use of materials and its incorporation of Brazilian motifs. The building was intended to be the headquarters of the Ministry of Education and Culture, and it continues to be used for government offices today. The building has been designated a National Historic Landmark and is a must-see for anyone interested in modernist architecture.
The Mosteiro de São Bento
The Mosteiro de São Bento, located in São Paulo, is a Benedictine monastery that dates back to the 1600s. The building’s architecture is a mix of styles, with elements of baroque and neoclassical design. The monastery is known for its ornate altar and intricate wooden choir stalls, both of which were carved by Brazilian artists in the 1700s. The monastery is still in use today and is open to visitors who want to attend mass or take a tour of the building.