In Brazil, payphones are often housed in distinctive red or yellow enclosures called “cabinas” or cabins. These cabins, which were originally introduced in the 1970s, have become a recognizable feature of urban landscapes in the country. They provide privacy and protection for users making calls, as well as shelter from the elements.
The cabins typically have a door that can be closed while making a call, creating a sense of privacy in public spaces. They also often feature advertising, helping to offset the costs of maintaining the payphones. However, with the widespread use of mobile phones, payphones have become less common in Brazil, leading to the removal of many cabins in recent years.
Despite this decline, the cabins continue to hold nostalgic value for many Brazilians. Some people remember using payphones in these cabins to make important calls or connect with loved ones. The cabins are also seen as an iconic symbol of Brazil and its urban culture.
In recent years, some initiatives have been launched to repurpose these cabins, turning them into mini libraries, art installations, or even tiny cafes. These creative adaptations aim to preserve the cabins’ cultural significance while also bringing new life to these once-ubiquitous structures.
Overall, the Brazilian payphone cabins hold a special place in the country’s history and culture, serving as both a practical communication tool and a unique symbol of urban life.