The sculptures were created by artist Tatti Moreno, known for his work in the Pelourinho district of Salvador.
The sixteen statues represent major Orixás, including Exu, Ogum, Oxóssi, Xangô, Oxum, and Iemanjá.
The site is a major hub for the annual celebrations of Iemanjá, the Queen of the Sea, held in early December.
Each statue is positioned to overlook the waters of Lake Paranoá, symbolically connecting the deity to the water element.
The park was established through a partnership between the local government and religious leaders to combat systemic religious discrimination.
Praça dos Orixás, also known as Prainha do Lago Sul, is a lakeside park in Brasília dedicated to Afro-Brazilian religious traditions. It features sixteen life-sized sculptures of the Orixás, deities from the Yoruba religion, cast in concrete and fiberglass. The square is situated along the shores of Lake Paranoá, serving as a significant site for religious rituals and cultural celebrations. It was inaugurated in 2004 to promote religious tolerance and celebrate the heritage of the African diaspora in Brazil. The layout includes walking paths that lead visitors past the individual deity statues, each accompanied by descriptive plaques. The location is an open-air public space designed for both contemplation and community gatherings.
The wide-angle vantage point facing the Iemanjá statue with the lake and the Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge in the background.
Bring insect repellent as the lakeside location attracts mosquitoes, especially during late afternoon.
Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the unpaved or sandy paths surrounding the sculptures.
Visit during the daylight hours for the best visibility of the artistic details on the statues.
Avoid visiting late at night, as the park lacks significant lighting and security patrols after dark.
Maintain a respectful distance from any ongoing religious rituals or offerings; refrain from touching or climbing on the statues.
