Palace of Justice, Modernist courthouse and palace in the Monumental Axis, Brazil
The Palace of Justice is a modernist courthouse and government ministry building on Brasília's Monumental Axis, spanning six floors with an open design. White marble columns, water features, and glass surfaces create geometric forms that give the space an airy, light-filled feeling.
Oscar Niemeyer designed this government building in 1958 as part of the planned development of Brazil's new federal capital. The structure was built when Brasília was being created from scratch, with modern architecture shaping the new city's identity.
The building shows Brazilian modernism through its concrete and glass design, blending local materials with international architectural ideas. Visitors notice daily how people move through the open spaces and how the water features strengthen the modern appearance.
The building is open to visitors Monday through Friday, with guided tours available by prior arrangement. It is best explored in the morning when sunlight hits the glass surfaces and the water features are most visible.
The facade features a sequence of artificial waterfalls cascading between vertical columns that act as a natural cooling system for the building. This thoughtful design shows how architects combined visual beauty with practical function.
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