What is the capital of Brazil?

The capital of Brazil is Brasília. Located in Brazil's Federal District on the Central Plateau, it became the national capital on 21 April 1960, replacing Rio de Janeiro.

Brazil built Brasília to move the political center inland and encourage development away from the Atlantic coast. President Juscelino Kubitschek drove the project, which was completed on an exceptionally fast schedule. Urban planner Lúcio Costa designed the city's overall plan, while architect Oscar Niemeyer designed many of its landmark government buildings.

The planned core, known as the Plano Piloto, is famous for its monumental avenues, superblocks, and distinctive modernist architecture. From above, the layout is often said to resemble an airplane, although Costa described the original concept as a cross-shaped design adapted to the terrain. UNESCO recognized Brasília as a World Heritage Site in 1987.

Salvador was Brazil's first capital, followed by Rio de Janeiro, so both are common alternatives in quizzes. São Paulo is Brazil's largest city and economic powerhouse, but it has never been the national capital. Brasília houses the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.