Igrejinha Nossa Senhora de Fátima, Modernist church in Plano Piloto, Brazil
Igrejinha Nossa Senhora de Fátima is a modernist church in Brasília featuring a triangular sloped roof supported by three pillars that resembles a nun's hat, with the structure positioned prominently in the urban landscape. Its exterior walls are decorated with blue and white tiles that make the building stand out distinctly.
The building was constructed in just 100 days and opened in June 1958 as the first masonry temple in Brasília, following a request from First Lady Sarah Kubitschek. This rapid completion made it a significant symbol during the early years of the newly built capital.
The exterior walls display religious motifs created by artist Athos Bulcao, including the Star of Bethlehem and the Dove representing the Holy Spirit. These tiles give the building a distinctive visual character that speaks to visitors walking past.
The church is centrally located in Plano Piloto and easily accessible to visitors throughout the week, with regular mass services offered. Its central position makes it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.
In 2009, artist Francisco Galeno created new interior paintings incorporating elements of Brazilian folk culture with colors linked to Our Lady of Fatima. These later artistic additions bring a folk dimension to the interior that complements the modernist exterior.
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