Catete Palace

Catete Palace is a former presidential residence in Rio de Janeiro featuring Neoclassical and eclectic design elements. The building stretches from Catete Street to Flamengo Beach, displaying a pink granite facade adorned with bronze eagles and white marble portals.

The building served as Brazil's presidential residence from 1897 to 1960 and witnessed major political events during this period. President Getulio Vargas died by suicide there in 1954, a moment that profoundly shaped the country's history.

The palace carries the name of an ancient indigenous people and reflects the self-image of the early Republic. Visitors can see today how the rooms were designed to express power and authority.

The building is easily reached by subway and is open daily except Mondays for visitors. Comfortable shoes are recommended since you will walk through multiple floors and rooms while exploring.

On the third floor sits a remarkable skylight made of many individual pieces that filters natural light through colored glass. This crafted construction creates a particularly calm and thoughtful space that many visitors easily overlook.

Location: Rio de Janeiro

Inception: 1867

Architects: Carl Friedrich Gustav Waehneldt

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture, eclectic architecture

Floors above the ground: 3

Accessibility: Wheelchair limited access

GPS coordinates: -22.92583,-43.17611

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:28