What is the capital of Brazil?
Brazil's capital has been Brasília since 1960. This modern city, specially built to serve as the new capital, replaced Rio de Janeiro, which held this role since 1763.
Brasília, modern capital of Brazil
Brasília officially became the capital of Brazil on April 21, 1960, after four years of intensive construction. This futuristic city, designed by architect Oscar Niemeyer and urban planner Lucio Costa, was built from scratch in the heart of the Brazilian central plateau.
From Rio de Janeiro to Brasília
Before Brasília, Rio de Janeiro served as the capital since 1763, itself succeeding Salvador de Bahia (the first capital from 1549 to 1763). The transfer to Brasília was driven by a political will to develop the interior of the country and create a symbol of national unity.
Key points
- Brasília : capital since April 21, 1960
- UNESCO Heritage since 1987 for its unique modernist architecture
- Population : approximately 3 million inhabitants in the federal district
- Location : central plateau, Centre-West region of Brazil