Senate plenary chamber with empty blue chairs and Brazilian flag projected

The Brazilian Federal Senate plenary chamber, with empty blue chairs and the national flag projected in the background, conveys the solemnity of the legislative process.

About this subject

The Brazilian Federal Senate, housed in the National Congress Palace in Brasília, is the upper house of the Legislative Branch. Its main functions include reviewing bills passed by the Chamber of Deputies and approving appointments for positions such as Supreme Court justices and Central Bank presidents. The plenary chamber, with its iconic blue chairs arranged in a semicircle, has been the stage for historic debates, such as the 2016 impeachment vote of President Dilma Rousseff. The projection of the national flag, with its green, yellow, blue, and white colors, symbolizes the federation. The architectural design of the Congress, by Oscar Niemeyer, is a landmark of Brazilian modernism, inaugurated in 1960. During twilight, the internal lighting enhances the atmosphere of solemnity and expectation, even when the chairs are empty, representing the break between legislative sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many blue chairs are in the Senate plenary chamber?

The Senate plenary has 81 blue chairs, representing the 26 states and the Federal District, with three senators per federative unit.

What is the significance of the Brazilian flag projection in the plenary?

The projection of the national flag reinforces the country's identity and sovereignty during sessions, symbolizing the union of states under the federal system.

Who designed the National Congress Palace?

Architect Oscar Niemeyer, a leading figure of Brazilian modernism, designed the National Congress, inaugurated in 1960 as part of the construction of Brasília.