The Catedral de São Sebastião, also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro, is a prominent Catholic church located in the center of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city, and one of the largest church buildings in the world.
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The cathedral's unique architecture is inspired by the Mayan pyramids of Mexico. The building features a conical shape with four large stained glass windows, which rise to a height of 75 meters (246 feet) and form a cross at the top. The interior of the cathedral is equally stunning, with intricate murals, sculptures, and paintings that depict scenes from the life of Christ and other biblical stories.
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The cathedral was built in the 1960s and 1970s as part of a modernization program aimed at transforming Rio de Janeiro into a world-class city. It was designed by the Brazilian architect Edgar Fonseca, who drew inspiration from a number of different architectural styles, including Art Deco, modernism, and Brazilian baroque.
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The Catedral de São Sebastião is a popular tourist attraction in Rio de Janeiro and a prominent site for Catholic worship. It can accommodate up to 20,000 people and is often used for religious ceremonies, concerts, and other cultural events. The cathedral's striking architecture and rich history make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Rio de Janeiro.