Oscar Niemeyer 1907 – 2012

Biography

Oscar Niemeyer was born on December 15, 1907, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and devoted his life to the practice of architecture. Throughout his career, he became one of Brazil’s most influential and celebrated architects, leaving an indelible mark on the built environment and the cultural landscape of his nation. His work reflected both artistic vision and a deep commitment to his profession.

Niemeyer spent his entire life in Rio de Janeiro, the city of his birth, where he developed and refined his architectural philosophy. Over the decades, he contributed significantly to Brazilian design and urban development, earning recognition for his distinctive approach to architecture and his role in shaping the modern aesthetic of Brazil.

On December 5, 2012, just ten days before what would have been his 105th birthday, Oscar Niemeyer passed away in his native Rio de Janeiro after suffering cardiac arrest. He was laid to rest at Cemitério de São João Batista, also in Rio de Janeiro, where he remains honored by his community. His legacy continues to influence architects and artists around the world.