Milk River Bath | Mandeville

Information

Landmark: Milk River Bath
City: Mandeville
Country: Jamaica
Continent: North America

Milk River Bath, Mandeville, Jamaica, North America

The Itamaraty Palace is the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil, located in the Monumental Axis of Brasília.

Visual Characteristics

The palace is a rectangular prism structure constructed primarily of concrete and glass. Its exterior features a series of parabolic arches supporting a cantilevered roof. The facade is characterized by extensive use of tinted glass panels and polished granite. A large, rectangular reflecting pool surrounds the building on three sides, with a width of approximately 16 meters. The structure stands at a height of 36 meters.

Location & Access Logistics

The Itamaraty Palace is situated on the Monumental Axis, Sector 4, in Brasília. It is approximately 3 kilometers from the city center. Vehicle access is via Eixo Monumental. Public parking is available in designated areas adjacent to the palace. The nearest public transport stops are served by bus lines 0.102 and 108.2, located within a 500-meter radius.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Designed by architect Oscar Niemeyer, construction began in 1958 and was completed in 1965. It was originally intended to house the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and was conceived as a symbol of Brazil's diplomatic presence. The site is part of the planned urban landscape of Brasília, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can access the palace for guided tours that cover the building's architecture and its collection of Brazilian art. The tours typically include viewing the Hall of Treaties, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Presidential Hall. Photography is permitted in designated areas. The reflecting pool and surrounding gardens are accessible for viewing.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available for visitors within the tour route. Shaded areas are provided by the building's overhang and surrounding trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the palace grounds. Food vendors are not present directly at the palace; dining options are available in the nearby commercial sectors.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal photography of the building's reflections, early morning or late afternoon light is recommended. The best months for visiting are generally from April to September, which corresponds to the dry season in Brasília, offering clearer skies. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

The reflecting pool surrounding the Itamaraty Palace is designed to be filled with water from the nearby Paranoá Lake, though it is typically supplied by the municipal water system. The palace's design is often cited as an example of Niemeyer's modernist principles, emphasizing curves and open spaces.