It’s impossible to leave the São Bento Metro station and not notice the huge, imposing, centuries-old building that stands in front of you. We’re talking about the São Bento Monastery in São Paulo, one of the oldest temples in São Paulo, which took more than two centuries to become the way we know it today.
Founded in 1598, its history begins in the 16th century, when the Benedictines arrived in the city. As a result, a chapel dedicated to São Bento began to be built in 1600 and was completed in 1634, when the Abbey was established.
Many, many improvements over the years
The structure underwent its first expansion in 1650, and the complex also gained a college and the Faculty of St. Benedict in 1903 and 1908, respectively. The definitive renovation of the site came about because of the German religious Dom Miguel Kruse, who wanted to modernize the place.
The colonial church and monastery were demolished in 1910 so that a new building could be constructed. Following the design of architect Richard Berndl, the work lasted until 1922, when the new São Bento Monastery was finally handed over.
The architecture is inspired by the Germanic eclectic style, while the interior decoration was planned and executed by the Dutch Benedictine monk Adelbert Gresnicht, who came to Brazil especially to work on the project.
Papal visit — The monastery underwent a further restoration process in 2006, in order to host Pope Benedict XVI during his visit to Brazil, which took place in May of the following year.
What can you do at the Monastery of São Bento?
Have an exclusive brunch inside the Monastery of São Bento
An experience that unites gastronomy, culture and history in one of São Paulo’s greatest heritage sites, visitors have the chance to attend Sunday Mass with Gregorian Chant at 10am and a guided tour of the site begins at around 1pm with one of the Benedictine monks, who takes the group through places not accessible to the general public.
The events take place on selected dates, always on Sundays, and tickets are sold in advance.
Mass in the Church of the Monastery of São Bento
Masses are held daily, especially on Sundays, which attract many visitors.
Monday to Friday: 7am (Gregorian chant); 1pm
Saturday: 5:50 (Gregorian chant)
Sunday: 8am; 10am (Gregorian chant)
Candlelight Concerts at the Monastery of São Bento
The combination of the soft light of thousands of candles and the monastery’s historic architecture creates a truly special atmosphere. Imagine being surrounded by centuries of history while each note resonates in the air as if played by angels.
It’s an invitation to close your eyes and let yourself be carried away, where each chord is a star shining in the darkness, illuminating souls and hearts. In this magical setting, where art and spirituality meet, they make this moment a unique celebration.
When to visit
The São Bento Monastery in São Paulo is open for visits at the following times:
Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday: 06h00 to 18h00
Thursday and Friday: 06h00 to 08h00
Saturday and Sunday: 6 a .m. to 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
How to get there
📍 Located just a two-minute walk from São Bento station, metro line 1-Azul, it is also possible to park in the Monastery’s own parking lot or in one of the surrounding parking lots.
São Paulo is full of emblematic and beautiful places to discover.