Copan Skyscraper, Sao Paulo

The Edifício Copan, also known as the Copan Building, stands tall in downtown São Paulo, reaching a height of 118.44 meters (459 feet) with 38 stories. This residential masterpiece comprises 1,160 apartments and houses a vibrant array of 70 commercial establishments, solidifying its position as one of Brazil's largest structures.

Oscar Niemeyer's architectural office in São Paulo was behind the design of this iconic building, with Niemeyer himself taking personal responsibility for its renowned sinuous façade. The vision was to create a space that welcomed a diverse cross-section of Brazilian society. Originally, the plan included two buildings—the other being a hotel—but ultimately only the residential structure came to fruition.

Construction commenced in 1952 and, despite facing some interruptions, reached completion in 1966. To this day, it remains among Brazil's most substantial edifices. The name "Copan" is derived from the abbreviation of its original developer, the "Pan-American Hotels and Tourism Company" (Companhia Pan-Americana de Hotéis e Turismo).

The Copan Building has 1,160 apartments, accommodating 2,038 residents. It has 20 elevators, 221 parking spaces, and 72 businesses on the ground floor, including a church, travel agency, bookstore, and four restaurants.

Niemeyer's original design featured an exterior park, a second park on the first floor, and a rooftop deck. However, the park outside the building now serves a bank, while the first-floor park and rooftop deck are currently closed to the public.

The Copan Building has been a profound source of inspiration for writers, filmmakers, photographers, and artists from around the globe. Renowned Brazilian author Regina Rheda published a collection of short stories titled "Ark without Noah - Stories from the Copan Building". The Copan Building gained further recognition when it appeared in the second episode of The Amazing Race 9.