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Centro Cultural Justiça Federal

The Republic, justice and rights

Cinelândia · 1909–1960

Why visit

Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court was based here from 1909 to 1960. The educational tour connects the building with debates on freedom of the press, habeas corpus and citizenship, inviting visitors to consider how rights are established and defended.

What to look for

  • The former courtroom and historic furniture, subject to access on the day
  • The Republic’s coat of arms, paintings and stained glass depicting justice
  • The staircase and Themis stained-glass window
Whose rights were recognised under the Republic, and who had to fight to secure them?

Visiting details

Free. Tuesday–Sunday, 11am–7pm; no booking for general admission. Book a guided visit through the Educativo page: its ticket link serves up to 10 visitors; larger groups should use email.

The institution lists a ramp and lifts; confirm the accessible route. Events may restrict access to the former courtroom.

The Supreme Court moved to Brasília in 1960. This stop explores republican institutions; it is not a museum dedicated to the military dictatorship. The library is scheduled to remain closed for an inventory until 16 November 2026; check current notices.

Routes that include this stop

Centro & port · about 6 hours

Republic & citizenship

Start with an 11 am booking at the National Library.

Biblioteca Nacional → Centro Cultural Justiça Federal → Museu da República / Palácio do Catete

Explore route

Centro & port · 6h–6h 30

Cinelândia and the Republic

Public architecture and republican history: the square, a booked National Library visit, the former Supreme Court and the Presidency at Catete.

Cinelândia / Praça Floriano → Biblioteca Nacional → Centro Cultural Justiça Federal

Explore route