Laid out as a planned city in 1933, Goiânia serves as the capital of the Brazilian state of Goiás. It is an important economic hub and renowned for its abundance of green spaces. Art Deco buildings designed by Attilio Correia Lima dot the city, with several recognised by the National Institute of Historical and Artistic Heritage.
Things to do in Goiânia
You can delve into the local history at the Zoroastro Artiaga Museum, which houses objects and artefacts of regional significance. Learn about the area’s Indigenous peoples and its coal-mining heritage, as well as the cultural festivities that take place here. Occupying the Art Deco-style home of the city’s founder is the Pedro Ludovico Museum, which is decorated with period furnishings and vintage wares.
Located within Bosque dos Buritis Park is the Goiânia Art Museum, which showcases both temporary and permanent exhibitions. Its two galleries are named after artists who played an important role in the museum’s creation - Sala Amaury Menezes and Sala Reinaldo Barbalho. In addition to paintings, drawings and sculptures, you’ll find engravings and digital media works.
On the outskirts of Goiânia is the Oscar Niemeyer Cultural Center, which was designed by the renowned Brazilian architect after whom it is named. It comprises four geometrical buildings that house a library, a concert venue and a contemporary art gallery, as well as a 36-metre-high pyramid known as the Human Rights Monument. Throughout the year, the Oscar Niemeyer Cultural Center hosts changing exhibitions, live performances and educational workshops.
Getting around Goiânia
Goiânia International Airport is around 20 minutes’ drive from the city centre and has flights to destinations across Brazil. By road, Brasilia is three hours away. Long-distance buses connect to Goiânia while local services travel throughout the city, connecting most of its attractions.