Curitiba, one of the most admired cities in Brazil, owes much of its identity to the work of Jaime Lerner, an architect and urban planner renowned for his innovative vision and commitment to sustainability and urban quality of life. The famous question, “Who designed Curitiba?” inevitably leads us to discuss this urban planning icon and his significant contributions to the city.

One of the milestones of his career was the Agache Plan, developed in 1943. This ambitious project was conceived by French urban planner Alfred Agache, who proposed a city restructuring plan focused on modernization and urban aesthetics. The primary goal of the Agache Plan was to create a more functional and integrated city, considering population growth and the need for adequate infrastructure.

The proposal included the creation of green spaces, the expansion of public areas, and the organization of urban traffic, as well as a layout that respected the local geography. Although the plan was not fully implemented, it laid the foundation for a more planned and sustainable city development, inspiring future initiatives—including those led by Jaime Lerner in the following decades.

When Jaime Lerner became mayor of Curitiba in 1975, he implemented several ideas from the Agache Plan but with a greater focus on urban mobility and accessibility. His vision resulted in innovative projects, such as the integrated public transportation system and the development of parks that became world references.

Curitiba was recognized as the smartest city in the world by the Smart City Award, a testament to the effectiveness of the urban policies implemented by Lerner and his legacy. His contribution goes beyond physical structures; he believed that urbanism should serve people. His human-centered approach transformed Curitiba into a model of a sustainable and intelligent city, attracting visitors from all over the world eager to learn about this urban planning success story.

If you want to discover how planning and architecture come together to create a high-quality urban environment, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Curitiba! Brasul Trips offers private guided tours that provide an in-depth exploration of the city’s history and details. Our local expert guides share fascinating insights into Curitiba’s history and culture, making your visit even more enriching.

Come explore urban innovations, green parks, and local culture with a guide who will bring Curitiba’s experiences to life! Book your tour today and fall in love with the city that inspires the world!

In summary, Jaime Lerner and the Agache Plan are deeply intertwined with Curitiba’s history.

The work of this great urban planner left a lasting legacy, continuing to shape the city and inspire other metropolises in search of solutions to contemporary urban challenges.