The Rise and Fall of Hotel Rádio: Araxá’s Forgotten Jewel

Construction and Inauguration

1. Origins and Planning (1940-1944):

Hotel Rádio was conceived during Getúlio Vargas’s administration as part of a grand project to boost tourism in Minas Gerais. Supervised by Oscar Niemeyer and led by Israel Pinheiro, the hotel was envisioned as a luxurious retreat that would complement the thermal waters of Araxá.

2. Construction Phase (1944-1947):

Construction began in 1944 and was completed in 1947. Despite logistical and financial challenges, the hotel was designed with modern architecture and luxury in mind, aimed at attracting Brazilian and international elites.

3. Grand Opening (1947):

The hotel opened its doors in 1947, quickly gaining a reputation as one of Brazil’s most luxurious destinations. Named “Rádio” to reflect the popularity of radio as a mass communication medium at the time, it hosted politicians, artists, and wealthy elites.

Golden Years and Decline

4. Peak Years (1950-1960):

Throughout the 1950s, Hotel Rádio flourished, becoming a hub for social events, including grand balls and galas. The thermal waters were widely promoted for their therapeutic properties, drawing visitors seeking both health benefits and luxury.

5. Decline and Closure (1970-1980):

As the 1970s progressed, the hotel’s popularity waned. Economic changes, competition from other tourist destinations, and a lack of investment led to its deterioration. By 1980, the hotel had fallen into disrepair and was officially closed.

Myths and Legends

6. Supernatural Tales:

Over the years, legends of ghosts haunting the hotel have become part of its lore. Stories of voices and mysterious figures in the hallways, as well as the belief that the hotel was built on an ancient indigenous burial ground, have fueled its reputation as a haunted site.

7. Attempts at Revival:

Various proposals have been made to revitalize the hotel, including converting it into a cultural center or luxury resort. However, none of these efforts have materialized, and the building remains abandoned, a ghostly reminder of its past grandeur.

Current State

8. Present Condition:

Today, Hotel Rádio stands as a relic of Araxá’s golden era, drawing visitors intrigued by its architecture and haunted history. Its future remains uncertain, but its legacy as a symbol of a bygone era in Minas Gerais tourism endures.