Explore the heart and soul of a captivating city along Brasília’s Monumental Axis. This broad highway stands among the widest roads in the world with multiple lanes in each direction separated by a median strip wide enough to host events. Enjoy the rare experience of driving down this motorway as you pass by Brasília’s visually impressive cultural and governmental buildings.
The Monumental Axis was constructed after the 1950s as a fundamental part of President Juscelino Kubitschek’s plan for a sleek, modern city. It runs east to west through the central line of Brasília’s airplane-like design. If you’re visiting Brasília, you’ll frequently use this crucial transportation avenue.
Most of the significant monuments, memorials and institutions that line the axis were designed by the award-winning Oscar Niemeyer. Start your experience of the axis at the farthest eastern point, where the Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge provides a breathtaking visual experience above Lake Paranoá.
This road runs west into the government sector of Brasília, which lies appropriately in the “cockpit” of the city’s airplane design. Find the Three Powers Plaza where you can see the Supreme Court and the Planalto Palace next to the sleekly designed National Congress Building.
Farther west, enjoy the reflective pools surrounding the Itamaraty Palace and take the opportunity to appreciate the large circular nave at the Metropolitan Cathedral. Enjoy more of Niemeyer’s architectural genius in the cultural sector of the axis. Buildings here include the dome-shaped National Museum, an engaging National Art Gallery and the relaxing National Library.
At the westernmost sectors of the axis, see the inspired design of Brasília’s TV Tower, which lies in the center of the median strip. Nearby you’ll find the Memorial JK, which houses the body of Juscelino Kubitschek as well as his personal collections. Climb to the top of the TV Tower for an unforgettable view down the entire thoroughfare.
Explore the Monumental Axis by car or use bus routes that pass through the Central Station.
