Federal District

The Federal District is an administrative territory in central-west Brazil that encompasses the national capital and its surrounding areas. It divides into several regions with different characteristics, ranging from urbanized centers to more open landscapes, following a distinct administrative model compared to other states.

The administrative unit came into being through the decision to relocate the government from the coastal city of Rio de Janeiro to the interior. The central plateau was chosen to encourage economic growth and political presence in less developed regions of the country.

The territory brings together regional customs from across the country, visible through folk festivals, craft fairs and events showcasing music, dance and food from all states. Sunday markets, public gatherings and open-air art spaces show how residents from different parts of Brazil live together and share their diverse backgrounds.

The territory is organized into separate zones for specific purposes, which helps with orientation by function. Long distances between areas mean visitors often need vehicles to move from one zone to another.

The unit functions without independent municipalities inside its borders, which is unique among all Brazilian states and territories. All local tasks are handled directly by a single administrative structure that combines both state and municipal functions.

Location: Brazil

Inception: April 21, 1960

Capital city: Brasília

Elevation above the sea: 1,124 m

Reference: DF

Part of: Central-West Region

Shares border with: Goiás, Minas Gerais

Website: https://df.gov.br

GPS coordinates: -15.78333,-47.75000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 19:50