Monument to the Brazilian Armed Forces, Rio de Janeiro

The Monument to the Brazilian Armed Forces serves as a tribute to the Brazilian soldiers who played a role in, and those who sacrificed their lives during, World War II (WWII). This National Monument to the Dead of World War II, known as the "Monumento Nacional aos Mortos da Segunda Guerra Mundial," is situated in Flamengo Park within the Flamengo district, near Guanabara Bay and in close proximity to the modern art museum.

The design of the monument was the result of a competition won by Konder Netto and Helio Ribas Marinho. The main sculpture takes on an abstract form, standing at a height of 31 meters. At the top of the two vertical structures, there is a concave rectangular platform. Some may initially perceive the structure as resembling a massive ancient torch, although information regarding the symbolism behind the design is somewhat limited.

It's important to note that the monument consists of more than just this primary sculpture; it incorporates various other pieces. These additional works include a metal abstract sculpture, crafted by Julio Catelli Filho, which pays tribute to the members of the Brazilian Air Force. There is also a granite statue designed by Alfredo Ceschiatti, honoring the personnel of Brazil's sea, land, and air forces. Furthermore, a tiled mosaic wall mural designed by Anisio Medeiros is dedicated to the Navy and Merchant Marines who lost their lives at sea.

On the site, there is a mausoleum that houses the remains of 467 Brazilian Expeditionary Force service members who perished in action in Italy during the war. Initially, they were interred at the Brazilian Military Cemetery of Pistoia in Tuscany, but they were later repatriated in 1960, the same year the monument's construction was completed.