Arch. Oscar Niemeyer, 1958
It opened on the same day as the nearby presidential residence (Palácio da Alvorada), and quickly became the social hub for politicians, diplomats, and international celebrities. It hosted Queen Elizabeth II, Dwight Eisenhower, Che Guevara, and the Duchess of Kent.
The building is noted for its sleek, floating effect created by Niemeyer’s iconic concrete pillars.
A devastating fire broke out in 1978 forcing the iconic hotel to close and leaving it abandoned for over two decades.
After a major restoration that preserved Niemeyer’s original design and modernist legacy, the property officially reopened its doors to the public in 2006.
A gigantic ficus stands in front of the hotel.
Rooms are spacious and with a balcony. Breakfast is taken in the back garden while listening to early morning singing birds.
