The modern movement was a milestone in architecture worldwide, by disseminating new ways of building and organising spaces in a troubled period, circumscribed by the great wars of the 20th century. In Brazil, the Federal Institutes were multiplier agents of modern architecture, with the construction of government headquarters in various capital cities. The construction of the João Goulart Building, former headquarters of the INSS, was a milestone of modern architecture in the capital of Maranhão, with the demolition of two-storey houses to insert one of the first and only skyscrapers in the foundational core, listed by UNESCO in 1997. Built in 1960, the INSS building in São Luís functioned for only 20 years in its almost 50 years of age; and it had a history of failed renovations and neglect by the competent public bodies, resulting in its complete abandonment and wear and tear, driven by vandalism and irregular occupations. Today it represents one more case of abandonment of this institution, as well as begging for a closer look at Brazilian modern architecture along with the importance of preserving cultural assets.