Brazilian Supreme Court modernist exterior with reflecting pool

Modernist facade of the Brazilian Supreme Court in Brasília with a reflecting pool on an overcast day.

About this subject

The Supreme Federal Court (STF) is the highest body of the Brazilian Judiciary, located at the Three Powers Plaza in Brasília. The building was designed by Oscar Niemeyer, one of the leading modernist architects of the 20th century, and its construction was completed in 1960, the same year the new capital was inaugurated. The architecture of the STF is marked by straight lines and geometric volumes, with emphasis on the V-shaped columns that support the building's marquee, creating a sense of lightness and dynamism. The reflecting pool in front of the building is not merely aesthetic: it mirrors the facade and symbolizes the transparency expected of the Judiciary. On overcast days, as in the image, the diffused light enhances the gray tones of the exposed concrete, a characteristic material of Niemeyer's brutalist architecture. The STF is composed of eleven justices, appointed by the President of the Republic after Senate approval, and its role is to uphold the Federal Constitution, judge cases of great relevance, and act as the court of last resort. The Three Powers Plaza, where the STF is located, also houses the Planalto Palace (seat of the Executive) and the National Congress (seat of the Legislature), forming an architectural ensemble declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. The STF is open to the public for guided tours that explain the history and functioning of the Court.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed the Brazilian Supreme Court building in Brasília?

Architect Oscar Niemeyer designed the STF building, inaugurated in 1960.

What does the reflecting pool in front of the STF represent?

The reflecting pool symbolizes the transparency of the Judiciary and mirrors the modernist facade of the building.

Can the public visit the Supreme Federal Court?

Yes, the STF offers free guided tours for the public, with prior scheduling.