Cláudio Santoro National Theater 🇧🇷

Welcome to Brasília, Brazil, where you can explore the striking Cláudio Santoro National Theater. Designed by the famous architect Oscar Niemeyer in the Modern architectural style, this multi-theater building stands in the distinct shape of a truncated pyramid. It holds a unique distinction as the largest building in Brasília designed by Niemeyer specifically for the arts.

Operated by the Secretary of Culture of the Federal District, the complex offers fascinating architectural features and artistic spaces for visitors to see. Inside the complex, you will find three distinct venues: the intimate 60-seat Alberto Nepomuceno theater, the 407-seat Martins Pena theater, and the massive 1,407-seat Villa-Lobos theater. Beyond these performance halls, the complex includes an annex with offices, rehearsal rooms, and an exhibition gallery that is accessible to the public.

Originally named during its development and later renamed in 1989 to honor the Brazilian composer and violinist Cláudio Santoro, this landmark has undergone several closures and historic renovations since construction began in 1960. Following a decade-long closure that started in 2014 due to irregularities and budgetary constraints, the theater finally reopened to the public in December 2024. You can now visit this modern architectural treasure and experience Brasília’s rich cultural history firsthand.

What to see at Cláudio Santoro National Theater

• Modern architectural design shaped like a truncated pyramid by Oscar Niemeyer
• The 1,407-seat Villa-Lobos theater, the largest venue inside
• The 407-seat Martins Pena and 60-seat Alberto Nepomuceno theaters
• Publicly accessible exhibition gallery featuring artistic works

Visiting tips

Be aware when planning your visit that while the theater reopened in December 2024, not every room has been entirely reformed.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Cláudio Santoro National Theater is easy to reach on Brasília’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Palácio do Planalto and Palácio da Alvorada. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Brasília travel guide.