church · Brasília, DF
Santuário Dom Bosco
From outside it is a plain concrete block; inside, thousands of pieces of blue stained glass create the feeling of a night sky. The central crystal chandelier completes the effect.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Santuário Dom Bosco
The Santuário Dom Bosco is a Catholic church in Asa Sul, Brasília, dedicated to the Italian priest who, according to tradition, dreamed in the 19th century of a promised land between the 15th and 20th parallels, where the capital stands today. That is why Don Bosco is Brasília's patron saint, alongside Our Lady of Aparecida.
The church was built by the Salesians between 1963 and 1970, designed by architect Carlos Alberto Naves. From outside, it is a square block of exposed concrete, surrounded by 80 columns 16 meters tall that form pointed arches, in a design reminiscent of Gothic. The gardens are by Roberto Burle Marx.
The impact comes when you walk in. The spaces between the columns are filled with stained glass in 12 shades of blue, which turn the hall into a kind of starry sky, a reference to the saint's dream. A large Murano glass chandelier hangs in the center. The altar is a single piece of marble.
It is an active church, with Masses, weddings and people praying. The visit is relaxed, on flat floors, and fits easily into any city itinerary. Just keep quiet during services.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Half an hour is enough to see the interior at a relaxed pace, take in the light through the stained glass and walk around the outside.
Best time
On sunny days, mid-morning or in the afternoon, when light streams through the stained glass and the blue is most intense; the dry season (May to September) more often guarantees clear skies.
How to get there
It is on W3 Sul, at block 702, near the start of Asa Sul and a few kilometers from the Rodoviária do Plano Piloto (central bus station) and the Esplanada dos Ministérios. Many bus lines run along W3 Sul; by car or ride-hailing app it is a short trip from the Eixo Monumental.
Tip
Sit on one of the pews for a few minutes and let your eyes adjust to the dim light: the effect of the blue stained glass gets much stronger than at first glance.
A look at the place
Santuário Dom Bosco in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Santuário Dom Bosco
Is there an entrance fee at the Santuário Dom Bosco?
No. Entry is free, as at any church. During Masses and weddings, keep your visit discreet.
How long does the visit take?
About half an hour is enough to see the interior, the stained glass and the chandelier at a relaxed pace.
Why is the stained glass blue?
The stained glass, in 12 shades of blue, recreates a starry sky, a reference to Don Bosco's dream about the land where Brasília would arise.
Where is the Santuário Dom Bosco?
On W3 Sul, block 702, in Asa Sul, near the center of the Plano Piloto. Several bus lines run along W3.
What is the best time to visit?
On sunny days, in the morning or afternoon, when light streams through the stained glass and the blue is strongest. Check Mass and visiting times on the official website or at the sanctuary office.