Curitiba : A Sophisticated and Futuristic Brazilian City

Curitiba is a Brazilian city that is considered to be futuristic and sophisticated. It is not as average when it comes to its urban planning. It stands out as better in comparison to its counterparts. Some of the things that makes Curitiba very notable is the five express-bus avenues together with the policies that have been implemented to curb rising issues of poverty and pollution. Curitiba is the perfect place to visit and enjoy some Brazilian culture at its best while still appreciating the environment. These are some of the sightseeing places in Curitiba:

1. Jardim Botanico de Curitiba

Jardim Botânico de Curitiba is a popular park in Curitiba. It offers a great space for both adults and children to interact especially the garden area. The place is lined with well-hedged plants. There are over 400,000 species of flora that are hosted at this garden. There is a greenhouse too that is great to explore especially during the right season. The greenhouse itself is a beautiful feature as it is made of glass often referred to as the crystal palace. The garden provides a perfect space for relaxing, exercising and walking.

2. Museu Oscar Niemeyer

Photo byWagner ROCHINK

Museu Oscar Niemeyer is an impressive art museum in Curitiba. It was designed by Oscar Niemeyer who gave it an interesting architectural effect resembling an eye. This museum is a perfect sightseeing stop for the art lovers who will enjoy the many exhibitions which take place on the top floor. The sculpture is also a good photo background and feature for photographers. There is also a nice cafe that serves great food and espressos which you can stop by. Since it is a popular place for rotating exhibitions, expect the place to be bustling with people.

3. Panoramic Tower

Panoramic Tower is the ideal place to go sightseeing in Curitiba from a different perspective. The tower is 110 meters tall. From the top, you get some panoramic views of the city from the glass-enclosed observatory deck. Going up the tower is facilitated by a small elevator that can fit 5 people maximum. Those who wish to get photos may have a hard time using flash as the light reflects back from the glass. As basic as it may sound, the landscape is beautiful from the top and the views will be memorable.

4. Wire Opera House

Wire Opera House is also known as Ópera de Arame was launched in 1992 where great opera acts have been hosted. The name is derived from its wire-like steel-tube construction that gives it a beautiful outlook. Around the opera is a leafy and waterside setting that gives it an enchanting outlook. Acoustics within the opera house are nice offering a different ambiance and experience as it is one of its kind. This theater house is one of the major tourist attractions of Curitiba with many tourists sightseeing for its architecture and set up.

5. Metropolitan Cathedral

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Metropolitan Cathedral is an 1876 Gothic styled church located at the center of Curitiba. The church dominates the Praca Tiradentes which makes it hard to miss. Some of its interesting features, however, are its stained glass windows together with the interesting paintings from Italian brothers. The structure was designed by a French architect who gave the church life. Sightseeing tourists enjoy the ceilings too which are in detail. The surrounding park is a great place to relax especially during a sunny day. There is no admission fee to the church so there is no excuse to miss out on visiting this place.

6. Ukranian Memorial

The Ukrainian Memorial in Curitiba is situated within a small park. There is a Byzantine church replica with a great gift shop. The memorial is used to commemorate the Holodomor and the genocide that was caused by a man-made famine that cost the lives of over 3 million Ukrainians. Besides the memorial, visitors can go and explore the church’s interiors as there are various [essankas on display together with some famous colored Ukranian eggs. At the bell tower, you can find a metal sculpture that captivates the eye. The gift shop is a great place to scoop some Ukrainian souvenirs.

7. UFPR - Federal University

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UFPR - Federal University is the oldest and most important public universities in not only Curitiba but Brazil. It has been in existence for over 100 years. The university is architecturally blessed with some Greek architecture which is classic. The territorial space was given to the people of Curitiba after the Federalist revolution. There are many spots within the university square to walk around and enjoy the neoclassical building. There are several streets to make stops before getting to the university where you can enjoy some candies and sandwiches.

8. Zoologico Municipal de Curitiba

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Zoologico Municipal de Curitiba is a great sightseeing stop for ecotourists. The zoo is a free admission spot where you can get to interact with amazing wildlife. Some of the highlights are animals from Africa such as the giraffe and hippos. You will get to enjoy various monkeys, birds, and cat species. The environment is very conducive for the animals as they are given ample space to roam around. The soo is a perfect venue for families to interact and since it is free. It is great if you are on a budget.

9. Memorial da Seguranca no Transporte

Memorial da Seguranca no Transporte is not a transport museum but a center that shows the development of transportation safety over the years. This is the best sightseeing stop for everyone in Curitiba who would wish to learn more on road safety as they reflect on their behavior in traffic. Some of the interactive exhibits included in the tour of the place include game-based experiences which ignite curiosities. There is so much to enlighten one even in terms of technology. Despite the main agenda being safety and survival skills, these exhibits are great for the modern society.

10. Museu Egipcio Ordem Rosacruz

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Museu Egipcio Ordem Rosacruz is a great museum in Curitiba. The museum is divided into two major parts which is the Egyptian and Rosicrucian section. The Egyptian section is, however, the largest part. Most of the objects found include items that touch on the people’s civilization, religion and also politics. Most of the objects housed in the museum have been well preserved just like in most museums. The gem of the place is the real mummy which is very interesting. The museum remains open on Saturdays especially in the afternoon till 5 pm.

◎ Closing

It may not be the sexiest city in the world but most envy its urban planning which is recognized worldwide. This Brazilian oddball is the perfect travel escape if you wish to enjoy Brazilian soil in another light as it is different from other Brazilian cities. Curitiba will give you a plethora of sightseeing adventures that will recharge your travel thirst.