The monument was designed by architects Hélio Ribas Marinho and Mark Netto Violich following a national competition.
It contains the remains of all Brazilian combatants who died in the Italian theater of operations between 1944 and 1945.
The structure includes an iconic, vaulted concrete portal designed to represent a monumental gateway to history.
The interior mural was created by renowned Brazilian artist Anísio Medeiros.
The site includes a bronze statue representing the three branches of the Brazilian Armed Forces.
Beneath the primary platform lies a museum specifically dedicated to the history of the Brazilian Expeditionary Force.
The monument's perpetual flame is maintained by the Brazilian Army.
It is strategically positioned within the Aterro do Flamengo, one of the largest urban parks in Rio de Janeiro.
The Monumento Nacional aos Mortos da Segunda Guerra Mundial is a modernist memorial dedicated to the 467 Brazilian soldiers who died in combat during World War II. Opened in 1960, the site houses the remains of these soldiers in a subterranean crypt beneath a massive concrete portal. The monument is characterized by a distinctive elevated platform featuring a tall, abstract pillar and a sprawling portico. Architecturally, it adheres to the mid-century Brazilian modernist style, prioritizing clean geometric lines and large open spaces. Visitors can view a permanent exhibition detailing the history of the Brazilian Expeditionary Force (FEB) in the Italian campaign. The central area features a perpetual flame, which symbolizes the nation's enduring remembrance of the war. Its location at Aterro do Flamengo provides a scenic view of the Sugarloaf Mountain and Guanabara Bay.
From the base of the portal looking upward toward the sky to capture the scale of the concrete structure.
Bring a hat and water, as the monument grounds offer very little natural shade from the sun.
Take time to visit the underground museum beneath the main platform to fully understand the historical context of the FEB.
Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding Aterro do Flamengo park.
Do not attempt to walk across the busy highway bordering the park; use the designated pedestrian bridges.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor as this is a memorial site and final resting place.
