How do you see your role in Brasilia as the granddaughter of a visionary President?
Anna Christina Kubitschek - First of all, I'm honoured to be the granddaughter of this great man, which is why I feel a moral obligation to preserve what he created, and to forge a mindset that will enable Brazil to continue to become a modern, industrialised and democratic nation.
What is your most vivid memory of your grandfather and his relationship with Brasilia?
A. C. K. - During the military dictatorship that followed his term in office, my grandfather bought a farm in the neighbouring state of Goiás, because he was forbidden access to Brasilia. He spoke of the city as if it were his own daughter, and sometimes went out at night to pay it clandestine visits.
How do you respond to those who see Brasilia as a city without a soul?
C. K. - I explain to them that courage, optimism, cultural tolerance and determination are the very soul of this city, which is the product of an epic construction. Since the new government introduced the annual celebration of the city's anniversaries, more and more people are taking part every year. Proof that the craze continues. And we're all looking forward to celebrating 50 years in 2010.
