Cecil Charlton Park | Mandeville

Information

Landmark: Cecil Charlton Park
City: Mandeville
Country: Jamaica
Continent: North America

Cecil Charlton Park, Mandeville, Jamaica, North America

The Palácio da Alvorada is the official residence of the President of Brazil, located in Brasília.

Visual Characteristics

Constructed primarily from reinforced concrete and glass, the palace features a distinctive design characterized by 180 concrete columns supporting a large, curved roof. The exterior walls are clad in granite and stainless steel. The building's design emphasizes transparency and integration with its surrounding landscape, with large glass panels offering views of the Paranoá Lake.

Location & Access Logistics

The Palácio da Alvorada is situated on the shores of the Paranoá Lake, approximately 8 kilometers from the center of Brasília. Access is via the SHTN Trecho 1, with designated visitor parking available at the main entrance. Public transport options directly to the palace are limited; visitors typically rely on private vehicles or taxis/ride-sharing services.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, construction of the Palácio da Alvorada began in 1957 and was completed in 1960, coinciding with the inauguration of Brasília as the nation's capital. It was the first major building to be completed in the new capital. The site was chosen for its proximity to the planned administrative center and its scenic location on the artificial Paranoá Lake.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exterior viewing of the architectural design is permitted. Guided tours of the palace's interior are sometimes available, subject to presidential schedule and security protocols. Visitors can observe the grounds and the lakefront area.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available for visitors during scheduled tours. Limited shade is provided by the building's overhangs. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located within the immediate vicinity of the palace; dining options are available in the city center.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, the late afternoon offers favorable lighting conditions on the building's facade. The dry season, from April to September, generally provides clearer skies and more comfortable temperatures for outdoor viewing. Access for tours is subject to availability and requires advance checking of the official schedule.

Facts & Legends

The name "Alvorada" translates to "dawn" in Portuguese, symbolizing the dawn of a new era for Brazil with the establishment of its new capital. A notable feature is the "Mirror Hall," a large reception area with a ceiling adorned with 7,000 small mirrors, creating an illusion of infinite space.