The square was named in honor of Raul Soares de Moura, a significant politician who served as the President of the State of Minas Gerais.
The intersection of four major avenues at this point makes it one of the busiest and most complex urban traffic circles in Belo Horizonte.
The site underwent a major revitalization project in the early 2000s to restore its historical fountain and modernize its surrounding pedestrian walkways.
The central area is officially designated as a protected cultural heritage site by the Municipal Council of Cultural Heritage (COMPAC-BH).
Praça Raul Soares is a major circular hub in downtown Belo Horizonte, serving as the intersection point for four of the city's primary avenues: Amazonas, Olegário Maciel, Bias Fortes, and Augusto de Lima. The square is defined by its modernist architecture and a large central water fountain that has functioned as a focal point since its urban implementation. Originally designed as part of Aarão Reis’s city plan, it functions as a critical traffic node and pedestrian gathering space. The square features distinctive gardens and integrated landscaping that contrast with the dense commercial surroundings of the Centro district. It serves as an open-air urban landmark characterized by heavy transit flow and high-density street-level activity.
From the pedestrian islands near the central fountain to capture the converging avenues.
Observe the traffic patterns from the perimeter to understand the layout of Belo Horizonte's original city plan.
Visit during daylight hours to safely photograph the architectural contrast between the central fountain and the surrounding high-rise buildings.
Stay on designated pedestrian paths as the circular structure is a major hub for high-speed vehicle transit.
Avoid walking near the perimeter during peak rush hours, as the traffic density makes crossing the surrounding streets difficult.
Casual, but remain vigilant of constant, heavy vehicle traffic surrounding the perimeter.
