It is impossible to leave the São Bento Metro station without noticing the imposing, century-old building that dominates the landscape of the Historic Center. This is the Monastery of São Bento, one of the oldest churches in the city of São Paulo. Its history began in 1598, with the arrival of the Benedictine monks in what was then the village of São Paulo.
Shortly thereafter, in 1600, construction began on a chapel dedicated to Saint Benedict, which was completed in 1634, when the Abbey was officially established. Over more than two centuries of transformations and expansions, the complex acquired the grandeur and appearance we know today.
One of the city’s oldest landmarks
Over the centuries, the complex grew alongside São Paulo. New spaces were incorporated, including the Colégio de São Bento and, later, the Faculdade de São Bento, further cementing its commitment to education.
Despite its long history, the current building is not the same one erected by the first Benedictines. In the early 20th century, the German abbot Dom Miguel Kruse decided that the complex needed to keep pace with the capital’s modernization.
It was a bold decision: in 1910, the old colonial church and the original monastery were demolished to make way for a new, much grander design. The project, designed by German architect Richard Berndl, took twelve years to complete and was inaugurated in 1922.
Inspired by eclectic German architecture, the building impresses both with its exterior and its interior details. The decoration was carefully designed by the Dutch monk Adelbert Gresnicht, who came to Brazil exclusively to work on the project, leaving his mark on altars, paintings, and ornamental elements that still amaze visitors today.
In 2006, the monastery underwent further restoration to welcome a distinguished visitor: Pope Benedict XVI, who visited Brazil the following year.
Photo: São Bento Monastery in 1920
What can you do at the São Bento Monastery?
Brunch in one of São Paulo’s most historic buildings
Few people know this, but it’s possible to enjoy an experience that goes far beyond a traditional visit. On select dates, the monastery opens its doors for an exclusive brunch that combines fine dining, heritage, and spirituality.
The program begins with the traditional 10 a.m. Mass, accompanied by the famous Gregorian chant, whose sound has echoed through the church’s nave for decades. Afterward, one of the Benedictine monks leads a guided tour through areas normally closed to the public, revealing interesting facts, stories, and spaces that rarely appear on the city’s tourist itineraries.
Photo: Foca Foto e Vídeo/Courtesy/Brunch at the São Bento Monastery
Mass at the Church of the São Bento Monastery
Masses are held daily, with Sunday services being particularly notable, as they attract many visitors.
Mass Schedule
Monday through Friday: 7 a.m. (with Gregorian chant) and 1 p.m.
Saturday: 5:50 a.m. (with Gregorian chant)
Sunday: 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. (with Gregorian chant)
Photo: Courtesy of FEVER
Candlelight Concerts at the São Bento Monastery
When the only light comes from the glow of thousands of candles, the interior of the São Bento Monastery takes on a completely different atmosphere. The centuries-old walls, stained-glass windows, and architectural details seem to come to life as the music fills the space.
It’s an invitation to close your eyes and let yourself be carried away, where every chord is a star shining in the darkness, illuminating souls and hearts. In this magical setting, where art and spirituality converge, this moment becomes a unique celebration.
When to Visit
The São Bento Monastery in São Paulo is open to visitors during the following hours:
Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday: 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday and Friday: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m .
Saturday and Sunday: 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
How to Get There
📍Largo de São Bento, Historic Center of São Paulo
🚇 Metro station: São Bento on Line 1 (Blue)
🚗 On-site parking with entrance at Largo de São Bento, No. 48; spaces are limited and require payment
So, did you know these fun facts about the São Bento Monastery? The city of São Paulo is full of iconic and beautiful places waiting to be discovered.
