Senate plenary chamber with empty blue chairs and Brazilian flag projected

Empty Senate plenary chamber in Brasília, featuring blue chairs and a projected Brazilian flag.

About this subject

The Senate plenary chamber is the main deliberative space of the upper house of the Brazilian National Congress, located in the Palácio do Congresso Nacional in Brasília. Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, the building is an icon of Brazilian modernist architecture, with its curved lines and domes housing the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies. The blue chairs, arranged in a semicircle, are occupied by the 81 senators representing the 26 states and the Federal District. The projected national flag at the back reinforces the solemn and patriotic character of the environment, where votes, speeches, and ceremonial sessions take place.

The Senate exercises legislative, oversight, and deliberative functions, being responsible for approving federal laws, constitutional amendments, and international treaties, as well as judging authorities in impeachment proceedings. The current composition includes 81 senators elected to eight-year terms, with partial renewal every four years. The room is equipped with electronic voting systems and panels displaying real-time information, but when empty, it reveals the grandeur of the design and the serenity of the space.

The image captures the plenary in the morning, possibly before the start of activities or during a break. The absence of parliamentarians highlights the architecture and the symbolism of national elements. The use of digital projections is common to display the flag or other symbols during official events. The Palácio do Congresso Nacional is one of Brasília's postcards, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and receives daily visitors for guided tours.

Curiosity: the Senate plenary has hosted historic moments, such as the promulgation of the 1988 Constitution and the vote on the impeachment of President Dilma Rousseff in 2016. The blue chairs are covered in special fabric and have individual sound systems for each senator.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many senators occupy the Senate plenary chamber?

The Senate plenary has 81 seats, one for each senator, representing the 26 states and the Federal District.

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

The projection of the national flag is a patriotic symbol used during solemn sessions and official events, reinforcing national identity.

Can the Palácio do Congresso Nacional be visited?

Yes, the Palácio do Congresso Nacional in Brasília offers free guided tours, allowing visitors to see the Senate plenary and other areas.