Planned by the architects Lucio Costa and Oscar Niemeyer, Brasil's capital-city was awarded the title of Cultural Heritage of Mankind for its urban design and bold architecture. Its broad avenues house excellent hotels, restaurants, theaters, museums, bars, and night-clubs. If, on one hand, the city is the natural destination of the Tourism of Events, on account of its many facilities and world class infrastructure, on the other hand, it is the natural destination of religious, esoteric and mystical people. Religious syncretism is expressed in churches, sanctuaries, a mosque, spaces consecrated to African cults, oriental temples and places of worship inspired in spiritual revelations of many sorts. The same multiplicity is present in nature, in the forcefulness of the native cerrado, with its many caves, lakes, rivers and waterfalls.

CIVIC AND ARCHITECTONIC BRASILIA

Brasilia, a Monument City, is the most important work of urban design of the 20^th century, and the first modern city to be awarded the status of Cultural Heritage of Mankind by UNESCO. Monumentality prevails in all of the central areas of the city. Brasilia is the fruit of the groundbreaking ideas conceived by the Modern Architecture Movement at its best, and expresses its watershed concepts both in the daring architectonic forms of Niemeyer's buildings, viewed as the best architecture Brasil has ever produced, and in the model of space organization created by Lucio Costa.

The main tourist attractions are in the Pilot Plan, the only urban ensemble in the world with characteristics that are rigorously faithful to the tenets of the modern architecture movement. The Pilot Plan is formed by two axes: the Highway-residential Axis, that cuts clear across the city in the North-South direction; and the Monumental Axis, that runs from East to West, and where the Civic Tourism attractions are located. The Plaza of the Three Powers, for instance, is an ample civic space integrating the Three Powers of the Republic: on the south side, the Federal Supreme Court, the seat of the Judicial Power; at the center, the National Congress, the seat of the Legislative Power; and, on the north side, the Planalto Palace, seat of the Executive Power.

The most singular characteristic of these monuments, and of other Brasilia spaces as well, is the integration of art and architecture. Several famous artists participated in the construction of the new capital, transforming it into a stage for experimentation in the arts. The highlights are works by Bruno Giorgio, Alfredo Ceschiatti, Athos Bulcão, Marienne Peretti, Volpi, Di Cavalcanti, Victor Becheret and Burle Marx.

EAST MONUMENTAL AXIS – the portion located between the Central Bus Station and the Plaza of the Three Powers

The Plaza of the Three Powers concentrates the palaces and buildings that house the three powers of the Republic, and also important works of sculpture, such as The Warriors, by Bruno Giorgio, one of the symbols of Brasilia; and Justice, by Alfred Ceschiatti, that stands in front of the Supreme Court building. In the same plaza is the Pyre of the Country, by Oscar Niemeyer, and the Brasilia Landmark, also by Niemeyer, and created to celebrate UNESCO's decision of awarding Brasilia with the title of Cultural Heritage of Mankind.

Another attraction is the Brasilia Historical Museum. The sculpture of Juscelino Kubitschek's head can be admired on its façade. In the same plaza there is also the Pigeon House, a sculpture by Oscar Niemeyer, built in concrete, and commissioned by Dona Eloá Quadros, the wife of President Jânio Quadros. There is also the Flag Mast, a monument 100 meters high, designed by Sergio Bernardes, and mentioned in the Guinness Book of Records as the tallest flag mast in the world. Every first Sunday of the month the Flag Changing Ceremony is held, with military parades and many other attractions for the tourists who visit the city.

Built in honor of President Tancredo Neves and of all Brasilian heroes. It was designed by Oscar Niemeyer, and its shape suggests a dove. In the main hall there is a stainglass wall by Marianne Peretti and a mural on the Inconfidência Mineira, an episode in the fight for the independence of Brasil, by João Câmara. In the Red Hall, there is a mural by Athos Bulcão.

Visit hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 325.6244

An underground construction located in the Plaza of the Three Powers and created by Oscar Niemeyer in honor of Lucio Costa. A 179 square meters small-scale model of Brasilia is on display.

Visit hours: Mondays to Fridays, from 9 to 12 a.m. and from 2 to 6 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 325.6163

Located on the back side of the Plaza of the Three Powers, it is a small cylindrical building where the works (panels, drawings and photographs) of one of the major architects of the 20^th century are displayed.

Visit hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 226.6797

Oscar Niemeyer stated several times that the National Congress Building is his favorite piece of work. A postcard image of Brasilia, with its bold sculptural forms, the seat of the Legislative Power is an ensemble of buildings where two domes stand out, representing the two plenary halls. The convex and larger one is the Chamber of Deputies plenary hall, and the concave and smaller one houses the Senate's. In Annex I, formed by the two vertical 28-story buildings, functions the administration of both legislative houses. Along the years, other annexes were built for new parliamentary offices and other support activities.

Both Houses offer guided tours. The Black Hall, the Green Hall, the Noble Hall, and the two Plenary Halls are well worth the visit, and so are the galleries that link the different annexes to the main building, and the Coat-room, where there is a small museum displaying furniture from the Old Senate, that functioned in the Monroe Palace, in Rio de Janeiro. The Congress has a significant art collection, with works by Di Cavalcante, Alfredo Ceschiatti, Marianne Peretti, Fayga Ostrower, Carybé and Maria Bonomi.

Visit hours: Mondays to Fridays, from 9 to 12 a.m. and from 2 to 6 p.m.
Telephone: Chamber of Deputies - +55 (61) 318.5107
Federal Senate - +55 (61) 311.3344

Designed by Oscar Niemeyer. Its colonnade follows the same model as the Planalto Palace and the Alvorada Palace. A modern building, the Supreme Court houses many works of art displayed in its different spaces. There is also a museum with the courtroom furniture that belonged to its former seat in Rio de Janeiro, as well as pieces of furniture, magistrate robes, and personal objects of former justices. There is also a permanent exhibition on the history of law and of all the country's Constitutions.

Visit hours: Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 217.3000

Known as the Despachos Palace, it is the seat of the Brasilian Executive Power. Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, the building is faced with white marble, and from its main façade, overlooking the Plaza of the Three Powers, only four stories are visible, although the building has underground stories and administrative annexes. Ministerial meetings are held in an ample second-story hall, furnished with an imposing oval table.

The President's Office is on the third floor, side by side with the Civil and Institutional Security Offices. A wide spiral ramp links these two stories. Still in the second floor are the East and West Halls, where official ceremonies are held, such as the presentation of credentials by foreign diplomats, the signing of legislation and treaties, and the inauguration of Ministers of State.

Visit hours: Sundays, from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 411.1221

The seat of the Ministry of Foreign Relations, it is one of the best-known works by Oscar Niemeyer. The building has a colonnaded façade and decorative murals by several artists, such as Athos Bulcão, Rubem Valentim, Sérgio Camargo, Maria Martins, and also a fresco by Alfredo Volpi. The building is surrounded by a water-mirror that creates the setting for the famous sculpture by Bruno Giorgio, The Meteor. The internal and external landscaping is signed by Roberto Burle Marx. The Itamaraty art collection contains works by Brasilian artists of great renown, including paintings, sculpture, tapestries and refined decorative pieces from many periods. Among the historical paintings, one of the highlights is O Grito do Ipiranga (The Shout at Ipiranga), by Pedro Américo.

Other artists represented in the Itamaraty collection are Cândido Portinari, Mary Vieira, Franz Weissmann, Alfredo Ceschiatti and Victor Brecheret, among others.

Visit hours: Mondays to Fridays, from 2 to 6:30 p.m.; Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Telephone: +55 (61) 411.6159

Also designed by Niemeyer, the palace resembles the Itamaraty, on account of its arches. There is also a water mirror, and artificial cascades fall from concrete troughs jutting out from the main façade. Recently it received the name of Raimundo Faoro Palace.

Visit hours: Mondays to Fridays, from 8 to 12 a.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 429.3401

A broad and sweeping lawn alongside which are placed the seventeen buildings of uniform design that house the Executive Power ministries.

Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, it has a round ground plan, so as to avoid a main façade. The access to the interior is through an underground passage, which, according to some experts, may be understood as an allusion to the Roman catacombs of early Christianity. The 16 raw concrete curved pillars that join at the apex are also seen as an allegory to Christ's crown of thorns. The cathedral houses a significant collection of works of art: on the outer plaza, placed alongside the entrance, the sculptures of the four evangelists, by Alfredo Ceschiatti. Inside, paintings by Di Cavalcante, stainglass by Marianne Peretti and also a ceramics mural by Athos Bulcão, in the baptistery.

Visit hours: Mondays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesdays to Sundays from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 224.4073

Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, the building is shaped like a pyramid, and the main façade is a huge three-dimensional composition of squares and rectangles that jut out from the sloping wall, by Athos Bulcão. In the lobby are two sculptures – The Contortionist, by Alfredo Ceschiatti, and Bird, by Marianne Peretti. The landscaping of the internal gardens is signed by Burle Marx. The theater has three performing spaces: Villa Lobos, Martins Pena e Alberto Nepomuceno.

Visit hours: daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 325.6105

The Monumental Axis will soon acquire a new Cultural Center, that, according to Oscar Niemeyer, will represent the final stage of the building of edifices in that area. The architectonic project, maybe the last to be designed by the famous architect for Brasilia, is located between the Central Bus Station and the Cathedral, and will transform the East Axis into a great cultural area. The Museum of the Republic and the National Library will be built on that site. The complex will also offer an auditorium, shopping malls and a multiplex movie theater.

Located on the crossing of the Monumental and the Highway-residential axes, the Bus Station is the geographical center of Brasilia. The project was authored by Lucio Costa, who conceived a four-level complex of platforms. In the lower platform are the bus terminals linking the Pilot Plan to all other localities in the Federal District and adjoining region. On the midlevel platforms, the Station marks the division between the South and North Wings. On the upper platform are the two Entertainment sectors, now dominated by two large shopping malls: the Conic, on the south side; and the Conjunto Nacional, the town's most traditional shopping complex, on the north side.

Telephone: +55 (61) 314.4000

Designed by Lucio Costa, the Tower, 224 meters tall, is the Pilot Plan's highest point. Its 75 meters high observatory, open to visitors, offers a spectacular 360-degree view of the urban area. Built in two stages, the Tower was meant by Lucio Costa as a reference to the Paris Eiffel Tower. On the first floor is the National Gem Museum. On weekends, Brasilia's most traditional handicrafts fair, known as the Tower Fair, takes place on the surrounding plaza.

Visit hours: Mondays from 2 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.; Tuesdays to Sundays from 8:45 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 321.7944

One of the most complete sports centers in the country, it comprises the Mané Garrincha Stadium, the Nilson Nelson Gymnasium, the Nelson Piquet Racecourse, the Cláudio Coutinho Swimming Complex, and also multisport courts and athletic facilities.

Telephone: +55 (61) 313.5900

Designed by architect Sérgio Bernardes. It is located in the central area of the Monumental Axis and is currently undergoing remodeling. The original project provided for a capacity of up to 1,710 people, and it will now accommodate 7,100, offering modern and comfortable meeting rooms and auditoriums. When finished, the Convention Center will attract major domestic and international events.

Telephone: +55 (61) 429.7600

Designed by architect Nauro Esteves, of Oscar Niemeyer's team, it is the seat of the Government of the Federal District. It is named after a species of palmtree native of the cerrado, the buriti.

Engineer Israel Pinheiro, one of the builders and the first mayor of the new capital, had the tree planted in 1959. It is now protected as a City's Historical Heritage. In front of the Palace is a replica of the famous statue of the Roman She-wolf nursing the twins Romulo and Remo, a symbol of the city of Rome, and a gift from the Italian government to sister-town Brasilia. Both cities celebrate their anniversary on the same day, April 21^st.

External visits only.
Telephone: +55 (61) 448.1515

Designed by Oscar Niemeyer. A small pavilion of cylindrical shape, the memorial was inspired in the spatial organization of the Bororo Indian villages. Within, objects of indigenous cultures are displayed, such as basket-weaving, ceramics and feather-art.

Site: Buriti Plaza
Visit hours: Tuesdays to Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Telephones: +55 (61) 223.3760/266.5206

A mausoleum designed by Oscar Niemeyer to house the mortal remains of Juscelino Kubitschek.

It has an auditorium, and Kubitschek's 3000 volume personal library is on display. There is also a permanent exhibition of photographs and objects belonging to the founder of Brasilia.

Visit hours (paid admission): Tuesdays to Sundays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 225.9451/321.6778

The cross marks the highest point of Brasilia's urban area, 1,172 meters above sea level. This was the place chosen by the New Capital Site Choice Commission for the opening of the Monumental Axis. The cross that now stands on the Square is a replica of the original one, that was moved to the Metropolitan Cathedral for conservation reasons.

Designed by Oscar Niemeyer. This is the inter-state bus station, linking Brasilia to all Brasilian capitals, and to distant municipalities in the region.

Telephone: +55 (61) 363.2281

Architectural design by Oscar Niemeyer and landscaping by Burle Marx. It is an ensemble of buildings of sober lines, complemented by a monumental raised platform – known as the Caxias' Sword Dome and by the Crystals Plaza, an arrangement of stone sculptures in the shape of rock-crystals, by the Soldier's Oratory and by the Pedro Calmon Auditorium.

Address: Urban Military Sector, on the West Monumental Axis.
External visits only.
Telephone: +55 (61) 415.5151

The most significant examples of the residential blocks as proposed in the original plan. The first two were designed by Oscar Niemeyer to serve as a frame of reference for future projects. Both have a very good spatial distribution of buildings. Superblock South 308, on its turn, is considered the perfect rendition of Lúcio Costa's idea for residential areas in the Pilot Plan. The landscaping in this superblock is in an example of Roberto Burle Marx's art.

Address: these super-blocks are reached by the West-South Axis.

Architectonic project by Hélio Ferreira Pinto, its ground-plan was inspired in the institution's logo. It is the tallest building in the city, and its imposing 21-storied volume stands out amid the South Banking Sector. It has six underground levels, where the National Treasury coffers are located. The Central Bank owns one of Brasilia's most impressive collections of paintings, with works by Portinari, Di Cavalcante, Tarsila do Amaral, Djanira and other Brasilian modern movement artists. The building also houses the Currency Museum, displaying a rich collection of bills, coins, medals and documents on the economic history of Brasil.

Address: the museum is located on the ground floor of the Central Bank Building, in the South Banking Sector, Block 3.

Visits to the Museum only.

Visit hours: Tuesdays to Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; and Saturdays from 2 to 6 p.m., holidays excluded.

Telephone: +55 (61) 414.1414

Located in the South Banking Sector, the building is a cylindrical tower faced by vertical concrete slabs. On the ground-floor, the beautiful stainglass by Lourenço Heilmer attract visitors. The interior is hollow, and traversed by a circular staircase. The Cultural Center, a point of reference in Brasilia's cultural scene, is well worth the visit. It houses a significant collection of Brasilian contemporary art, as well as temporary exhibitions of great artistic value.

Address: South Banking Sector, Block A.
Visit hours: Tuesdays to Sundays and holidays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 414.9452

Another must-go address for those looking for high-quality cultural events. It houses a movie-theater, art galleries and spaces for debates and reading groups. Its ample outer plaza has gardens and a cafeteria.

Address: South Clubs Sector, Block 4.
Visit hours: Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 310.7087

The Superior Court of Justice complex, designed by Oscar Niemeyer, was inspired in the Egyptian pyramids. Two buildings shaped like irregular pyramids house the Court's plenary halls. A third one, lower than the others, stands on pillars shaped like pyramid trunks, and houses the smaller courtrooms. On the main façade there is a decorated wall by Marianne Peretti, and a painted mural by Valandro Keating.

Visit hours: Mondays to Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Telephones: +55 (61) 319.6479/319.6798

The official residence of the President of the Republic, it is one of Oscar Niemeyer's masterpieces. It was designed in 1956, even before the selection of the Pilot Plan for the new capital. It is a rectangular building with two visible stories and a basement floor, its main element being the white marble colonnade that frames the longitudinal façades. These columns have become one of the symbols of the capital-city. A small lateral chapel complements the design.

The Alvorada houses works of art such as the sculptures The Bathers, by Ceschiatti, and Rhythm Rites, by Maria Martins. The wall faced with golden tiles, in the lobby, was designed by Athos Bulcão, and so was the chapel's door and stainglass. Roberto Burle Marx signed the landscaping.

External visits only.
Telephone: +55 (61) 411.4000

The Catetinho was President Juscelino Kubitschek's first official residence in Brasilia. It is a very simple two-storied wooden construction, built in only ten days. It has become a museum retaining its original furniture and personal objects belonging to Kubitschek, and is now protected by the National Historic Institute. The name means Little Catete, and is an allusion to the Catete Palace, the official presidential palace in Rio at the time.

Visit hours: daily from 9 a.m. to 5: p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 338-8694

Elected in 2004 as the most beautiful bridge in the whole world by the Engineering Society of the State of Pennsylvania, U.S.A., the Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge is a worthy example of the architectonic boldness and the groundbreaking spirit that marked the construction of the new capital. The bridge connects the Monumental Axis exits to the South Lake QL 26. Two other bridges link the Pilot Plan to the South Lake neighborhood: the Ponte das Garças (Heron Bridge), linking the L-2 Avenue to the Gilberto Salomão Shopping Mall, and the Costa e Silva Bridge, linking the Clubs Sector to the South Lake QL 11.

"...and between parallels 15º and 20º South, there was a broad and long valley, starting at the point where a lake was formed. When the mines concealed in these hills are excavated, a great civilization will appear therein, the Promised Land flowing with milk and honey..." (Don Bosco's prophecy, 1883).

Prophecies and historical coincidences were part of the life of Brasilia even before the city was built. A dream turned reality by Juscelino Kubitschek's courage and vision of future, the new capital opened its doors to Brasilians of all creeds.

Oriental, Orthodox, Evangelical and Catholic churches sprang up in a fertile soil irrigated by hope. The holistic feeling of religious integration gave rise to communities such as the Valley of Dawn, the Eclectic Town and the Peace Town. The open spaces, the vast horizon and the ever-clear skies of the Central Plateau create a sharp setting for Brasilia's symbolism. The Brasilian capital is traversed by an imaginary line that runs across the South-American continent, linking the Atlantic to the Pacific. This same symbolic line passes through the Chapada dos Veadeiros, in the state of Goiás, extending to Machu Pichu, in Peru.

Address: East Monumental Axis
Visit hours: daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 224.4073

Built in honor of Brasilia's patron saint, Saint John Belchior Bosco, the Italian priest who had a vision of the Promised Land that would arise in the Southern Hemisphere, between parallels 15 and 20. The outer walls are formed by eighty 16 meters high columns supporting ogive-shaped arches that resemble those in the Itamaraty Palace. Hanging from the ceiling at the center of the nave, a 3,5 meter tall chandelier constructed with 7,400 pieces of Murano glass symbolizes Jesus Christ, the light of the world. The stainglass, in twelve shades of blue, was designed by Cláudio Naves and constructed by Hubert na Doorne. The iron and bronze doors decorated with bas-reliefs describing Don Bosco's life are signed by the sculptor Gianfrancesco Cerri.

Address: W-3 South, Block 702
Visit hours: Mondays to Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 223.6542

Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, it was built in 1958 by request of Dona Sarah Kubitschek, JK's wife. Its shape resembles a nun's bonnet. The angels and stars in the tiles designed by Athos Bulcão represent the Holy Ghost and the Nativity Star. The Igrejinha is now part of the Federal District Artistic and Historical Heritage.

Address: Between South Superblocks 307 and 30
Visit hours: Mondays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Tuesdays to Sundays from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 242.0149

Brasilia's only mosque accommodates 1,000 people, occupying an area of 2,800 square meters. It is considered the largest mosque in Latin America. It was built in true Arab style, and has a minaret, a tower from where, in Islam, the priest calls the faithful to the five daily prayers.

Address: North Great Areas Sector, W-5 Avenue, Block 912
Visit hours: Mondays to Sundays, except Fridays, from 2 to 6 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 273.0250

An example of Japanese traditional architecture, it is a replica of the Fukui Temple, in Japan. A statue of Buddha dominates the central altar and the interior is all golden.

Address: Between South Superblocks 315 and 316
Visit hours: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 to 10 a.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 245.2469

Another example of religious Japanese architecture. One of the fundamental tenets of the sect, founded by Master Masaharu Taniguchi, is that man is the perfect son of God. Seicho-no-ie has been in Brasil since 1930, and, in Brasilia, since the early days of its construction.

Address: Between South Superblocks 403 and 404
Visit hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sundays from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 325.2680

Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, it is shaped like a campaign tent. During a visit to Brasilia, in 1991, Pope John Paul II blessed the cathedral's founding stone. The building was completed in 1994.

Address: West Monumental Axis, in the Urban Military Sector
Visit hours: daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 323.3858

An ecumenical temple built by the Brasilian Army for the military public. Catholics, Evangelicals and followers of other religions can worship in harmony in the Oratory, where respect for all religions is viewed as a basic principle of peace.

The building is a round volume resting on concrete porticoes, and stands in the middle of a water-mirror. It complements the Army's General Headquarters complex.

Address: Urban Military Sector
Visit hours: daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 225.3671

Created in 1961, soon after the founding of Brasilia, its headquarters was completed in 1964. It is dedicated to Kardecist Spiritualism, and its followers perform social work in asylums and day-care centers, and assist the families of inmates. During the week, they hold energy pass sessions, offer individual consultations and promote courses on the doctrines of Alan Kardec.

Address: South Great Areas Sector, South L-2 Avenue, Block 604
Telephone: +55 (61) 225.2505

A small pyramid-shaped building, the Don Bosco chapel was built on the shores of Paranoá Lake, in honor of the Italian saint John Belchior Bosco, who, in 1883, predicted the arising of a new civilization, "a promised land flowing with milk and honey". It is a site of rare beauty, with a privileged view of the city and surrounding landscape. Today, the Chapel is part of an ecological preservation park equipped with trails for cycling and hiking.

Address: Don Bosco Highway, QI 29, South Lake
Visit hours: daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 367.4505

The architectonic design of the central headquarters was inspired in pharaonic tombs, and the building is faced with white marble. The Church was founded in 1935 by Mokito Okada, also known as Meishu-Sama, and its doctrine preaches the purification of man through contact with divine light, by means of Johrei, or spiritual energy transmission.

Address: Between North Superblocks 315 and 316
Visit hours: daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 340.8696

The Brasilia branch of one of the world's oldest fraternities is another example of pyramid-shaped architecture. The lions standing in front of the monument complement the Egyptian scenery. The ceremonies are usually closed to the public, but there are lectures and initiation courses for those who are interested.

Address: North L-2 Avenue, Block 607
Visit hours: by previous booking
Telephone/Fax: +55 (61) 273.5339

One of the first pyramid-shaped temples in Brasilia. Built in 1968, it represents the Jewish Tabernacle, a symbol of the meeting of God and man.

Address: South L-2 Avenue, Block 611 – module 75
Visit hours: by previous booking
Telephone: +55 (61) 345.3203

Built in the shape of a seven-faced pyramid, it stands 21 meters tall. One of the attractions is the crystal, the largest ever found in the Center-West region. It weighs 21 kilograms, is 40 centimeters high, and rests on the apex of the pyramid. Under this crystal, the visitors walk around a spiral path, seeking for spiritual energizing, while they pray or meditate. In the temple there is also a spring of purified water, energized by the crystal. There are seven places for visits: the Egyptian Room, the Noble Hall, the art gallery, the Alziro Zarur Memorial, the gift-shop, the main nave and the Parlamundi, also built in white marble and equipped with several auditoriums.

Address: South Great Areas Sector, South W-5 Avenue, Block 915 – modules 75-76
Visit hours: open 24 hours
Telephone: +55 (61) 245.1070

Also known as Universal Spiritualist Eclectic Fraternity, it was conceived by Yokanaan, a spiritualist medium who preached the unification of all lands. It was built in Santo Antônio do Descoberto in 1956, and its activities include both masses and spiritualist sessions. A community of 1,500 people live in the town, which has its own mayor, and work is divided among all.

Address: Municipality of Santo Antônio do Descoberto, state of Goiás.

Take highway BR-060 up to km 12, turn right on km 17, onto an unpaved road
Visit hours: Masses on Sundays at 9 a.m.
Umbanda (African rites) ceremonies: Wednesdays and Sundays, from 3 to 7 p.m.
Spiritualist sessions: Fridays at 8 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 629.1391

Conceived by the educator Pierre Weil, the City of Peace houses the International Holistic University, or Unipaz, whose main objective is to contribute to the personal and spiritual growth of all citizens. The university holds studies, therapies, courses and lectures. It was awarded by the United Nations with a replica of the Bell of Peace, cast with the melting of coins and medals donated by the member-countries in a worldwide campaign for peace. The United Nations has been giving out these bells since 1972. The University also won an award given by UNESCO for its education for peace efforts.

Address: South Exit, heading towards Gama. Granja do Ipê, access through Highway BR-40, km 30.
Visit hours: Mondays to Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 380-2090

A mystical community uniting several cults, it is considered one of the major examples of religious syncretism in Brasil. Founded by clairvoyant Neiva Zelaya, known as Aunt Neiva. Over 1,000 mediums work in the community, performing cure rituals and psychic mediunity development. The daily mystical rites integrate aspects of Afro-Brasilian, Incaic, Egyptian and Aztec religions.

Address: Town of Planaltina, access through highway DF-230 and DF-130, 40 km away from Brasilia.
Visit hours: daily from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. (consultations starting at 3 p.m.)
Telephone: +55 (61) 389.8754

A satellite town in the Federal District, 42 kilometers from the Pilot Plan, with access through highway DF-230 and DF-130, from the North Exit. This historical town is connected to the history of Brasilia, since it was in its vicinity, on Centenário Hill, that the future capital's founding stone was laid, on September 7^th, 1922. The town's most important festival is the theatrical performance of the Via Sacra (Sacred Way) on Capelinha Hill, with a cast of 1,250 actors and extras, playing for an audience of nearly 200,000. It is held every year on Good Friday.

Located 168 kilometers away from Brasilia, with access through highway BR-070. The town is part of the history of the Gold Cycle in the Province of Goiás. It served as a route for gold smugglers who, contrary to orders from the Portuguese Court, did not send the product of the mines to São Paulo. The town's attractions are historical colonial style buildings, such as the Our Lady of the Rosary Church; its many and beautiful waterfalls and the traditional popular festivals.

Held every year, 45 days after Easter. The festival, with its cavalhadas (cavalcades) is viewed as one of the most important folkloric festivals in South America.

Built between 1728 and 1732 by slaves, it is the oldest church in Goiás. It was destroyed by a fire, and is currently being restored.

Previously known as Goiás Velho (Old Goiás), the former capital of the state of Goiás is located 340 kilometers from Brasilia, with access through highway BR-070. Its history dates back to the conquest of Central Brasil, in the 18^th century, and the town has hardly changed from those days to now. The most famous of its festivals is the Procissão do Fogaréu (Torches Procession), on Wednesday of the Holy Week.

One of the most important churches of Goiás, where from the Procissão do Fogaréu departs on Dark Wednesday of the Holy Week, in the town's most important folkloric expression. Completed in 1779, it is the only building in the former capital displaying elements characteristic of the Baroque style. It now houses the Boa Morte Sacred Art Museum, whose collection includes pieces of Portuguese origin, such as crowns, chalices, candleholders, torches and lamps from the 18^th and 19^th centuries.

Built between 1775 and 1780, the church is extremely simple. Nevertheless, it offers one of the most beautiful views of the town of Goiás, the former state capital. It takes some physical fitness to climb the 52 steps of the stairway leading to the observatory.

The third church built in the former state capital, it was completed in 1761. The building's most interesting feature are the ceiling paintings in the nave and main altar, done by André Antônio da Conceição, in 1869.

Exit through Via Estrutural, following along highway BR-024. Located 159 kilometers from Brasilia. The 266 year-old town has a rich folklore of Christian-Portuguese origin, irregular streets, old houses, and a passion for the performances of the May 13 Band, one of the oldest in the country.

Built in 1751, it is one of the oldest assets of Goiás' heritage. The temple is a relic from the 18^th century, when the many gold mines in the Province furnished gold for the Portuguese Crown. Well preserved and regarded as one of the pillars of the town's history, the church houses baroque and neo-classical sculptures of amazing beauty, most of them brought over from Europe.

The town is located 60 kilometers from Brasilia, with access through highway BR-040, reached through the South Exit. It dates back to the times of the 18^th century Bandeirantes, the first explorers and settlers of the Brasilian wilderness. It retains its religious traditions, such as the Folia da Alvorada (Dawn Revelry). Its two major churches were built in those days, to be used one by the slavemasters, the other by the slaves.

The building of the Principal Church started on May 1^st, 1765, and the works were completed in 1772. Over 200 people participated in the inauguration festivities, including the famous Bandeirante Antônio Bueno de Azevedo. The church was built for the white population only.

The construction of the Rosário Church started on June 2^nd, 1769. It was built for the black population, with the aim of avoiding potential revolts, and to encourage religious feelings among them. More than the others, this church pricks the curiosity of both visitors and town-dwellers, on account of legends about gold buried under it – no one can tell whether the gold was hidden by the slaves or lies in an unexploited vein. Also, the church was used as a slave cemetery, and there are still mortal remains under the floor.

The Circumcision Festival was first celebrated in 1775. It started at dawn, on January the 1^st, when the Rosary Brotherhood took the image of Jesus from the Rosary Church to the Principal Church – where a Mass was celebrated – and then carried it in procession, stopping at every household in the village, and then returning to the point of departure. The festival celebrates the circumcision of Jesus, and takes place on the first day of the year.

The festival takes place in the rural area, where the revelers go out in groups of twelve, symbolizing the twelve apostles. The aim is to collect money for the Principal Church and to preach the gospel of the Catholic Church, in speech and in song. The revelers tour the neighboring farms, making "the round" as they say it, carrying the flag of the Holy Ghost – red, with a white dove in the center, as well as musical instruments (guitars and drums). The festival is held on the first day of the year.

Also known as the Brasilian savanna, and extending for nearly 2 million square kilometers, the cerrado covers all of the Brasilian Center-West. Several ecological parks preserve thousands of endangered species, such as the guará wolf, the campeiro deer, de tamandua anteater and the canastra armadillo. The underground waters well up in numberless springs, and in the more swampy areas the buriti palmtree predominates. The buriti is one of the symbols of Brasilia. The cerrado is a true sanctuary for orchids and bromelias, and the number of native fruit trees, such as the cagaita and the araticum, is astounding.

The magic of this region is reflected in its landscape. At first sight, the cerrado may appear arid and inhospitable. Little by little, however, we start to discover paradisiacal places filled with attractions such as waterfalls, caves and lagoons, all endowed with complete infrastructure for visitors of all ages who look for adventure, radical sports and all the thrill the Brasilian Central Plateau has to offer.

The largest leisure area in Brasilia. It is equipped with three circular trails 4, 6 and 10 kilometers long for walking, jogging or just strolling, and also with restaurants, an amphitheater, cart courses, playgrounds, bicycle trails, groves with barbecue pits, and horse-riding facilities.

Address: South Wing (entrances by the Monumental Axis, Industrial Sector and Blocks 901, 906 and 910).
Visit hours: 24 hours, daily
Telephone: +55 (61) 325.1092

A federal conservation unit, with an area of 300 square kilometers. It has a visitors center, ecological trails and water parks, with two swimming pools of running mineral water.

Address: EPIA highway – North Exit
Visit hours: daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (paid admission)
Telephone: +55 (61) 465.2016

Located right within the residential area, in the North Wing. It has trails, playgrounds and gym equipment. The native cerrado vegetation has been preserved, and some native fauna can still be found. One of the attractions is the Lagoa do Sapo (Toad Pond). It is also equipped with infrastructure for environmental education.

Address: North Wing – entrance by Block 414
Visit hours: daily from 5 a.m. to 12 p.m. (paid admission)
Telephone: +55 (61) 340.3777

The Garden has an area of 45,18 square kilometers, five of which are open to the public. There are trails, along which the visitors can see the several types of cerrado vegetation. The spice garden and the medicinal plants gardens are worth the visit. There is also a school of environmental education and a cerrado orchid greenhouse.

Address: Setor de Mansões Dom Bosco, module 12 (entrance by the QI-23 of South Lake)
Visit hours: Tuesdays to Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (paid admission)
Telephone: +55 (61) 366.3007

Brasilia's most important ecological reservation. Its watersprings feed the creeks that form the Amazon and the Prata Basins. Its margins shelter many wild species.

Directions: BR-020, in the Planaltina Area
Visit hours: special permit by IEMA is required
Telephone: +55 (61) 501.1791

Some of the most beautiful animals of the Brasilian fauna inhabit the cerrado, and can be seen at the zoo: the spotted ounce, the brown ounce, the guará wolf, the otter, the giant otter (ariranha), among others. Terrestrial birds, such as the rhea (ema), the crested seriema, and birds such as the Brasilian lapwing (quero-quero), the baraqueira owl, and the blue macaws are also examples of cerrado fauna, that comprises nearly 60 thousand different species.

Address: Avenida das Nações, South Exit
Visit hours: Tuesdays to Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (paid admission)
Telephone: +55 (61) 245.5003

Part of the Cafuringa Environmental Protection Area (APA), it is the largest private environmental reservation in the Federal District. It has several waterfalls and natural swimming-pools, and the valleys present outcroppings of calcareous rocks, forming caves. The sloping cracks form a channel along which flows the Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers) Creek.

Directions: follow the Via Estrutural until the crossing with highway DF-01. Continue in the direction of Brazlândia until highway DF-220, km 9. The entrance to the property is clearly indicated.

Telephone: +55 (61) 345.8668

One of the Reservation Zones of the Goyaz Biosphere, an important area for the preservation of the cerrado, located 34 kilometers from the town of Formosa, in the valley of the Paraná River. Its major attraction is the Itiquira Falls, the highest accessible freefall waterfall in the country, with a 168 meters drop. Further on, the river forms a sequence of waterfalls and pools. There are several springs of mineral water and good tourist infrastrucuture, with camping sites, restaurants, chalets and picnic areas.

Directions: Municipality of Formosa, 110 kilometers away from Brasilia. Access through highway GO-116, by the North Exit.
Visit hours: from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Telephone: +55 (61) 225.6601/225.2507

Viewed by many as an energetic paradise in the crystal region. Five square kilometers of native cerrado, with animals, birds and 20 crystal-clear waterfalls. The park is located on privately owned farmland, and admission is charged. Located one hour away from Brasilia.

Directions: from the South Exit, take highway BR-040 until km 92 in the direction of Cristalina.

One of the highest areas in the Central Plateau, 1,676 meters (around 5,500 feet) above sea-level. The National Park is managed by IBAMA, the Brasilian environmental agency, and covers 600 square kilometers of wild fields. There are trails leading to gigantic waterfalls, volcanic rocks, canyons and rivers. In the Municipality of Alto Paraíso, there is excellent tourist infrastructure. Several mystical and alternative sects and communities, such as the Osho Foundation, the Bridge to Freedom and the Arcadia Foundation are seated in the area, promoting retreats for studies and meditation, combined with ecological sightseeing.

Directions: from the North Exit, head to Formosa, turn left on highway DF-345 on the crossing to São João da Aliança, and follow highway GO-118.

Contact: Alto Paraíso Tourist Assistance Office
Telephone: +55 (62) 446.1159

The area covers 70% of the Chapada dos Veadeiros and is representative of the cerrado ecosystem, with fauna and flora characteristic of that bioma. It has valleys, canyons, rapids and over 150 waterfalls. Descendants of the Kalunga people, the dwellers of one of Brasil's largest quilombos (communities of run-away slaves) still live in the area, and preserve the culture, the language and the traditions of their ancestors.

Directions: follow highway DF-345 and turn onto GO-118.
Telephones: +55 (62) 345.8668/965.2461

Formed by the damming of the waters of the Paranoá river and of five other smaller creeks (Riacho Fundo, Gama, Torto, Bananal and Vicente Pires), the lake surrounds all of Brasilia's east side. A hydroelectric plant located on its banks supplies electricity to part of the city. The Lake is an excellent place for the practice of nautical sports, and there are clubs and restaurants all along its coastline. One of the attractions is the Pontão Sul, offering a very good view of the city.

Directions: The lake can be accessed by the Avenida das Nações, and through the residential areas in both the South and North Lake.

One of the most beautiful natural lagoons in the Northern region of the Federal District. Many wild animal species live on its shores. The lagoon has a 5 kilometer perimeter, and its breadth reaches 800 meters, approximately. It is of historical value because the Cruls Mission, the 1892 expedition that demarcated the limits of the future Federal District, passed by it.

Directions: from the North Exit, follow the BR-020 until Planaltina. Go past the town's entrance, turn left and proceed for 3 kilometers.

Limpid waters constantly renewed by subterranean water tables. On the shores there are small beaches appropriate for bathing and water sports such as wind-surfing and canoeing. The place is managed by the Lagoa Tour firm.

Directions: from the North Exit, follow the BR-020, turn on BR-010 and proceed for 18 kilometers.
Telephone: Lagoa Tour +55(61) 244.7001

Contradicting its name, that means Ugly Lagoon, it is very beautiful, located in a valley surrounded by an eucalyptus grove, in the vicinity of the town of Formosa, state of Goiás. The lagoon is approximately 7 kilometers long and 400 meters wide, with an average depth of 6 meters. It has good infrastructure for tourism, with floating bars and restaurants, pedal-boats and a camping site.

Directions: from the North Exit, follow the BR-020 highway. The lagoon is 80 kilometers away from Brasilia.

Located 35 kilometers from Brasilia, with good tourist infrastructure, it has country clubs, restaurants and a natural swimming-pool. The area is rich in cerrado vegetation.

Directions: from the South Exit, follow the BR-040 highway until the Solarium Monument (paid admission).

Telephone: Lagoa Tour +55(61) 502.6065

The Corumbá river drops from a 50 meter high (164 feet) rocky cliff, forming a vast pool, with cascades, douches and ponds of clear water, with small white-sanded beaches.

Directions: Located in the municipality of Corumbá de Goiás, 150 kilometers away from Brasilia. Follow the Via Estrutural and the BR-070 highway until Cocalzinho, then take the BR-414 (paid admission).

Telephone: +55(62) 508.2120

Located on a private property in the municipality of Cristalina, 134 kilometers away from Brasilia. It is a semicircular waterfall, 10 meters (32 feet) high and 50 meters long, formed by the Arrojado river.

Directions: from the South Exit, follow the BR-040 Highway until the town of Cristalina.

Located 35 kilometers away from Brasilia. The waterfall has clean and crystal-clear water, with a rocky and slightly rugged bed, and is surrounded by exuberant vegetation. It is reached by several trails rich in quartzite rocks.

Directions: from the South Lake QI-23, follow the DF-140 Highway heading to Unaí, state of Minas Gerais, for 5 kilometers, then turn right onto an unpaved road.

Both are part of an espeleological complex formed by a depression in the terrain, located 34 kilometers away from the town of Formosa, state of Goiás. The place is visited mainly by specialists, since the area is hard to reach and requires special equipment. Entrance by the Alegria Farm, in the municipality of Jardins.

Directions: from the North Exit, follow the BR-020 Highway for 92 kilometers, then turn left on a road-sign indicating a Telebrasilia Station. Proceed for 7 kilometers on an unpaved road.

Located 160 kilometers away from Brasilia, within private farmland. The cave is 1,200 long and very deep. It has stalactites and stalagmites of various colors, creating a magical atmosphere in its interior.

Directions: follow the BR-221 Highway heading to Unaí.

A complex of galleries and caverns approximately 5 million years old, with inner chambers inhabited by bats and covered with stalagmites. It should only be visited in the company of qualified guides.

Directions: take the North Exit and proceed until the Colorado Circle, following the DF-001, DF-170 and DF-205, until a road-sign indicating the Babilônia Farm (Fazenda Babilônia).

Telephones: +55 (61) 391.1137/391.1139/391.2499

The largest cavern system in Brasil, with tens of kilometers of galleries and halls, traversed by subterranean rivers, where the natural beauty is enhanced by the exotic fauna. It is located in the town of São Domingo, dating from the 17^th century, where houses built at the old gold mining times can still be found.

Directions: Located 400 kilometers from Brasilia. Follow along the BR-020 Highway leading to the State of Bahia, heading to the Serra Ronca State Park, past Formosa, Alvorada do Norte and Posse.

Telephone: +55 (62) 425.1069

The town of Planaltina sprung up after the gold-mining economic cycle had come to an end. The first settlers started to arrive around 1790, when a blacksmith descending from the bandeirantes, and expert in forging and repairing weapons, moved to the area and took house on the margin of the creek. The place became known as Mestre d'Armas, meaning "Master weapon-maker". In 1938 its name was changed to Vila Planaltina. In 1960, with the inauguration of Brasilia, Planaltina was incorporated into the Federal District as a satellite-town.

Directions: Located 40 kilometers from the Pilot Plan, through the North Exit and along BR-020 Highway.

Formerly a farmhouse built in 1811, it was the residence of the Guimarães family, pioneer settlers in the town and in the region. In 1982, the building came under the protection of the Federal Historical Heritage Institute, the IPHAN, and it now houses the Artistic and Historical Museum of Planaltina. It retains the original furniture, preserving the town's history and culture.

On September 7^th, 1922, exactly one hundred years after Brasil's independence, Brasilia's Founding Stone was laid by President Epitácio Pessoa, in a place then known as Morro do Centenário, distant 10 kilometers from the town of Planaltina.

A small historical town located at the foot of the Pireneus Hills. The town was founded in 127 by bandeirantes from São Paulo, in an area that attracted hundreds of gold-miners in the first decades of the 18^th century. Its highlights are the colonial style architecture, the many waterfalls existing in the surrounding area, and its traditional popular festivals.

Directions: Located 168 kilometers away from Brasilia, with access through Via Estrutural and BR-070 Highway.

Completed in 1899, it was frequently used by the local community in the early 20^th century. It was closed down in 1994, and the restoration works started in 1996, preserving only the original main façade, the volume, and the design of the old wooden structure.

A theater built in the 19^th century and converted into a cinema in 1930. It was closed down in that same decade.

The Rio das Almas cuts clear across Pirenópolis, and the bridge is located right in the middle of town, in front of the Police Station. In the early days of the settlement, a flashflood carried away half the bridge, and the town became known as Nossa Senhora do Rosário de Meia Ponte (Our Lady of the Rosary of Half-bridge). In 1890 it received the name Pirenópolis. The Rio das Almas is strewn with dozens of waterfalls.

The peak is located only 18 kilometers from downtown, and from its top, 1,385 meters high, it offers a panoramic view of the whole area. A small chapel was built on it.

The costumes worn in the Divine Holy Ghost Festival, that takes place 50 days after Easter, are displayed in the museum.

Formerly the state capital, the town was at first named Vila Boa de Goiás, and, later on, Goiás. When, in mid-20^th century, the capital was transferred to the newly-built city of Goiânia, the old capital became popularly known as Goiás Velho, or Old Goiás. Visiting it is like entering a time-tunnel that takes you back to the 18^th century and to the days of the Bandeiras (expeditions for the conquest and settlement of the Brasilian hinterland). The narrow streets paved with irregular stones, lined with simple houses built in the times of gold-mining, are a graphic example of life in colonial Brasil. The city was built by the first Bandeirantes, who came to Goiás looking for the gold from the Vermelho river, that crosses the town.

Directions: Located 340 kilometers away from Brasilia, access through BR-070 Highway.

On the banks of the Vermelho river, in a house typical of colonial Brasil, with stud-and-mud and adobe walls, lived the most illustrious figure of Goiás' old capital, Cora Coralina, the poetess who, like few others, represented the traditions and the way of life of the Brasilian backlands. Cora Coralina was born in that house, on August 20, 1889, and lived there for all her life.

Located in one of the town's main square, the edifice was constructed in 1761 for the Chamber and Jail House, a colonial Brasil institution where both legislative and judicial functions were conducted.

The Carioca Fountain was the first public watering place built in Vila Boa de Goiás. It was restored in the 1980's, and a leisure complex was built around it by the Municipal Administration. Across the Vermelho river stands the Boa Morte Fountain, built in 1778 in stone masonry with details in soap-stone.

The former seat of the state government, it attracts visitors on account of its interior and its beautiful multi-level patio, paved with brick-tiles, and with a water fountain on one of the side walls.

The Foundry House started to function in the year of 1752, and was closed down in 1822, after the exhaustion of the gold mines. For some time, it functioned as an auditorium for theatrical performances. Now, the building is used by the Public Prosecution, and is still open for visitation.

Located on the slopes of the Pireneus Hills, by the banks of the Corumbá river, the town displays many Brasilian colonial style houses dating from the 19^th century, and also a rich folklore of Christian-Portuguese origin. Among several popular festivals, the highlights are the performances of the century-old 13 de Maio Band, one of the oldest in the country. The town is surrounded by natural sites of great beauty, such as the Corumbá Falls, with its many waterfalls, pools, white-sanded beaches and lush vegetation.

Directions: Take the Via Estrutural, following along highway BR-024. Located 159 kilometers from Brasilia.

Considered one of the largest known crystal reserves in the world, Cristalina stands on top of vast quartz crystal deposits. Also, it is a small ecological paradise, surrounded by farmlands that are now areas of permanent conservation, whose landowners are aware of the ecological importance of the region. The town's vicinity is strewn with easy access waterfalls. Cristalina has around 15 large quartz mining sites and is known as producing the best crystal in the world.

Directions: Access through BR-40 Highway, 120 kilometers away from Brasilia.

Located 12 kilometers from Cristalina, the Ribeirão das Lajes is a touristic complex built by the Municipal Administration, with an artificial beach, beautiful waterfalls, natural swimming-pools and toboggans, sand courts for volleyball, footvolley, shuttle-cock and football, and equipped with shops, medical emergency facilities, police and fire brigade stations, with life-guards on duty 24 hours a day.

Located 5 kilometers from downtown, the Pedra do Chapéu, an improbable whim of nature, is Cristalina's most famous postcard, and is worth the visit. The "hat" is an enormous block of granite weighing 45 tons that balances on top of a much smaller stone, only 30 centimeters wide at the top. The stone stands by the side of the road and is affected by the vibration caused by trucks driving nearby. One must be careful not to lean on the rock and never trying to climb it.

Directions: Access through BR-40 Highway, 70 kilometers away from Brasilia.

The original settlement sprang up in the 18^th century, founded by miners in search of gold. In addition to the Itiquira Falls, its major attraction, another much visited place is the Igreja Nossa Senhora da Conceição (Our Lady of Conception Church). Other highlights are the Feia Lagoon, and the Araras and the Andorinhas Caves. From August to September, the town hosts the 2^nd stage of the Brasilian Gliding Championship, that takes place at the ramp located in the Paranã Valley, considered by the participants as the best for free-flight gliding in Brasil.

Directions: the ramp is 41 kilometers away from Formosa, by GO-118 Highway. The town of Formosa is 80 kilometers away from Brasilia, along BR-020 Highway, leaving from the North Exit.

In 1722, when the thermal waters of Caldas Novas were discovered, the Portuguese government, greedy for Brasil's mineral wealth, saved them for future exploration. Today, the site is the largest hydrothermal springs complex in the world. The towns' hotels offer several hot water swimming-pools and are full to capacity during the winter, when the tourists take refuge from the chilly weather in their hot pools.

Directions: 303 kilometers from Brasilia, exit from BR-040 Highway, into GO-010, GO-119 and GO-139 Highways.

One of the Caldas Novas hotels is the Pousada do Rio Quente Resorts, a hotel and touristic complex with hot running water between 37 and 42 degrees centigrade (98 and 107 Fahrenheit). The town's great attraction is the Hot Park, a hydrothermal park with natural swimming-pools, and a river with rapids and waterfalls.

Directions: Located 18 kilometers from from Caldas Novas. From Brasilia, take BR-040 Highway, following highways GO-010, GO-119 and GO-139.

To walk along trails that criss-cross tablelands of breathtaking beauty, to bathe in creeks and waterfalls surrounded by lush waterfront woods, to feel the pleasure of treading on raw earth, of eating food cooked in firewood stoves. To rediscover the joy of living.

Brasilia and the Federal District Adjoining Region, that includes towns in the states of Goiás and Minas Gerais, offer excellent options for those who want to get more closely acquainted with the natural beauty of the Brasilian cerrado, an ecosystem considered as one of the nine most important environmental areas in the planet.

The many facilities available, ranging from farm-hotels, relaxation resorts, horse breeding farms, rural restaurants and inns, and fishing sites, offer services that include boarding in apartments, chalets or camping sites, restaurants with food typical of the region, spaces for conventions and events, as well as other sorts of leisure equipment.

To discover the pleasure of country-living means to explore attractions that can not be found in cities. Horseback riding, ecological trails, horsecart rides, swimming in running water pools and in reservoirs, rowing and sailing, fishing in artificial tanks and in natural lagoons, visiting rural production areas, watching the milking of farm animals, and practicing radical sports, such as rappel, on the steep rocky cliffs of the region.

INFORMATION:

Sindicato do Turismo Rural do Distrito federal e Entorno, Ruraltur
+55 (61) 242.7611 or 242.9600
www.srdf.org.br

Other sources of information: