The capital of Brazil is Brasília, a planned city that officially became the capital in 1960. Designed by the architect Oscar Niemeyer and urban planner Lúcio Costa, Brasília was built to promote the development of the interior of the country. Its modernist architecture and unique layout are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Brasília is located in the central part of Brazil and serves as the seat of the federal government. The city is known for its distinctive airplane-like shape and features important government buildings, including the Palácio da Alvorada and the National Congress of Brazil.