View of a building near Largo da Ordem Market in Curitiba

Torre Da Telepar

Torre da Telepar Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide to Curitiba’s Historical Landmark

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Torre da Telepar, also known as Torre Panorâmica de Curitiba or Torre das Mercês, stands as a defining symbol of Curitiba’s modern identity. Located at the city’s highest point in the Mercês neighborhood, this 109.5-meter telecommunications tower was originally built in the early 1990s to support Paraná’s rapidly developing communications infrastructure. Over time, the tower evolved into a celebrated public attraction, offering 360-degree panoramic views, rich cultural exhibits, and a unique perspective on the city’s architectural and technological journey. This comprehensive guide presents up-to-date details on Torre da Telepar’s visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, amenities, and surrounding attractions—ensuring you make the most of your visit to one of Curitiba’s most iconic historical sites (Curitiba Histórica; Minube; Guia da Semana).

Origins and Conception
Architectural and Technical Features
Inauguration and Evolution
Cultural and Artistic Significance
Museu do Telefone and Visitor Facilities
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Getting There and Nearby Attractions
Visitor Tips and Photography
Community Engagement and Sustainability
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion & Useful Links

Origins and Conception

The idea for Torre da Telepar emerged in the early 1980s, a period marked by urban expansion and technological advancement in Brazil. Telepar, the state telecommunications company, spearheaded the project to meet growing demand for reliable communications. The Mercês neighborhood was selected for its prime elevation—1,050 meters above sea level—offering technical advantages for signal transmission and a vantage point to showcase the city’s transformation (Curitiba Histórica).

Architectural and Technical Features

Completed in 1991, Torre da Telepar is a striking example of functionalist architecture, constructed with reinforced concrete to ensure structural integrity and durability. Its slender, cylindrical shaft supports antennas for radio, television, and mobile communications. The tower’s highlight is its oval-shaped, enclosed observation deck, 22 meters in diameter, providing unobstructed 360-degree views of Curitiba, the Serra do Mar mountain range, and notable landmarks such as the Oscar Niemeyer Museum and the Botanical Garden (Bem Paraná; Minube).

Technical highlights include:

Antenna Mast: Hosts multiple antennas for regional and international broadcasting.
Equipment Rooms: House telecommunications hardware, climate control, and power systems.
Lightning Protection: Advanced systems safeguard both equipment and structure.

Inauguration and Evolution

Since its opening, Torre da Telepar has served both as a telecommunications hub and as a public observatory—unique among Brazilian telecom towers. The site quickly became a city icon, attracting locals and tourists eager for panoramic views. Following privatization, ownership transitioned from Telepar to Oi, but the tower’s significance as a public attraction has only grown (Curitiba Histórica; Wikipedia).

Cultural and Artistic Significance

A defining feature of the observation deck is the 25-meter mural by famed local artist Poty Lazzarotto, commissioned to celebrate Curitiba’s 300th anniversary. This cylindrical artwork narrates the city’s evolution from indigenous roots through European settlement to its current urban form, blending art with public education (turismo.curitiba.pr.gov.br).

Museu do Telefone and Visitor Facilities

At the tower’s base, the Museu do Telefone offers a fascinating look at the history of telecommunications—from vintage rotary phones to early mobile devices. The ground floor also houses a tourist information center, souvenir shop (#CuritibaSuaLinda), and a café serving snacks and beverages. Well-maintained, accessible restrooms and friendly staff contribute to a comfortable visitor experience (Curitiba Histórica; Minube).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Closed Mondays and public holidays.
Tickets: R$7.00 for Brazilian residents; R$14.00 for foreign visitors (2025 rates). Discounts apply for students, seniors, and children. Tickets are available on-site or through the official tourism portal.
Accessibility: The tower features an elevator, wheelchair-friendly paths, tactile maps, and accessible restrooms. Multilingual signage and staff support are available.
Contact: For group bookings or accessibility inquiries, call (41) 3339-7613.

(Curitiba O Guia Turístico; Guia da Semana)

Getting There and Nearby Attractions

Torre da Telepar is located at Rua Prof. Lycio Grein de Castro Vellozo, 191, Mercês, Curitiba. The site is accessible by car, taxi, or public transportation, including the Linha Turismo tourist bus, which connects the tower with major city attractions such as Parque Barigui, Oscar Niemeyer Museum, and Jardim Botânico. Parking is available nearby, but public transport is recommended during busy hours (essemundoenosso.com.br; trek.zone).

The Mercês neighborhood itself offers parks, restaurants, and cultural centers, making it easy to combine your visit with other activities.

Visitor Tips and Photography

Best Time to Visit: Clear days, especially late afternoon, offer optimal views and lighting for photography.
Photography: The observation deck’s glass panels provide excellent photo opportunities. Tripods are generally permitted; check with staff for professional equipment.
Weather: Curitiba’s weather can be unpredictable—check the forecast before your visit.
Dress Comfortably: The observation deck is enclosed but can be cool; wear comfortable shoes.

Community Engagement and Sustainability

Torre da Telepar actively promotes sustainable tourism through waste reduction and energy-efficient lighting. The tower hosts community events, art exhibitions, and educational workshops, strengthening its role as a hub for both locals and tourists. Environmental awareness and respectful visitor behavior are encouraged (curitiba.oguiaturistico.net).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed Mondays and public holidays.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: R$7.00 for Brazilian residents, R$14.00 for foreign visitors (2025). Discounts for students, seniors, and children.

Q: Is Torre da Telepar wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes. Elevator access, ramps, and accessible restrooms are available.

Q: Can I bring a tripod for photography?
A: Tripods are generally allowed, but check with staff for professional setups.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Group and educational tours can be arranged; check in advance with visitor services.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Use the Linha Turismo tourist bus or regular city bus lines to Mercês.

Q: Are there cafes or shops on site?
A: Yes. There is a café, souvenir shop, and the Museu do Telefone at the tower’s base.

Conclusion & Useful Links

Torre da Telepar is more than a telecommunications tower—it’s a vibrant urban landmark that embodies Curitiba’s spirit of innovation, culture, and sustainable development. With its panoramic views, thought-provoking art, and engaging exhibits, the tower offers an unforgettable experience for locals and visitors alike. For the latest information on hours, tickets, and events, visit the official tourism pages or download the Audiala app for guided tours and exclusive content. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in one of Curitiba’s most cherished landmarks.

Sources and Official Links

Visual suggestion: Include high-resolution images of the observation deck, city views, Poty Lazzarotto’s mural, and the Museu do Telefone. Use descriptive alt text such as “Curitiba skyline from Torre da Telepar” and “Poty Lazzarotto mural at Torre Panorâmica.” Add an interactive map or link to virtual tours on the official tourism website.