With reflecting pools and water gushing through concrete gutters on its main façade, Raymundo Faoro Palace is a stunning sight. The building was designed by renowned Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer and houses the Ministry of Justice. Marvel at the architectural features, then step inside for a tour.
The palace was opened in 1972 and was originally called the Palace of Justice. It was renamed in 2003 to honor prominent lawyer and historian Raymundo Faoro who had just died. Walk around the exterior and note the differences between the façades, such as the different pillar spacing and the sun-deflecting structures known as brise-soleils on the west façade. They appear to dive into the water.
Admire the waterfalls on the main façade. Look at the block of Carrara marble engraved with a manuscript from 1822 written by Brazilian statesman Jose Bonifacio.
Go on a guided tour of the ministry’s interior. Look around the Tancredo Neves Auditorium, named after Brazil’s first democratically elected president who died before he could take office. Browse the photo gallery of former Justice Ministers of Brazil. Walk through the pergola garden and visit the library, which contains approximately 100,000 items. Among its holdings are rare books from the 15th century and all Brazilian laws passed between the beginning of the 19th century and the start of the 21st century.
Palace of Justice (Raymundo Faoro Palace) sits on the north side of the Monumental Axis in the center of Brasília. The building is open to the public every afternoon and is one of the many significant landmarks scattered around the vast avenue. Other notable attractions in the area include the Cathedral of Brasília, Three Powers Plaza and the National Congress. To reach the palace, take a bus to a stop just outside the building or ride the metro.
