The entire building was constructed in only 10 days to provide immediate shelter for the President during his visits to the nascent capital.
Its nickname 'Palácio de Tábuas' highlights the contrast between this humble wooden structure and the grand concrete monuments that would eventually define Brasília.
The interior contains the authentic presidential desk where crucial decisions regarding the transfer of the capital from Rio de Janeiro were signed.
The site acts as a monument to the 'candangos' workforce, with exhibits detailing their living conditions and the challenges of building in the remote central plateau.
It is considered the primary historical landmark of the 'pioneering phase' of Brasília’s creation.
Catetinho, the first official residence of President Juscelino Kubitschek, serves as a museum dedicated to the early construction phase of Brasília. Built in just 10 days in 1956, the structure is famously known as the 'Palácio de Tábuas' (Palace of Planks) due to its simple wooden construction. It functioned as the nerve center for the city's construction from November 1956 to April 1957. The site preserves the original interior furnishings, personal artifacts, and historical photographs documenting the arrival of the 'candangos,' the workers who built the capital. Visitors can view the presidential bedroom, office, and small kitchen exactly as they appeared during Kubitschek’s stay. The surrounding gardens feature native Cerrado vegetation and a small spring. It remains a critical site for understanding the logistical origins of Brazil's federal capital.
The front facade, capturing the wooden structure framed by the expansive blue sky typical of the Brasília plateau.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Gama area for local food, as there are limited dining options immediately on-site.
Wear comfortable shoes as the surrounding grounds, which contain historical markers, are unpaved in sections.
Check the official government cultural website shortly before your trip to ensure no special events or maintenance closures are scheduled.
Do not mistake this for the main Palácio da Alvorada; this is a much smaller, isolated wooden structure in a rural-fringe setting.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain a respectful tone as it is a historical site; photography is generally permitted, but do not touch the preserved artifacts or furniture.
