Introducing: Mosteiro de Sao Bento

Mosteiro de Sao Bento

Founded in 1598, the Mosteiro de São Bento (Monastery of St. Benedict) is an historic building of São Paulo. Of course that on the very beginning, it was just a tiny little house very different from the picture above. The construction of the current structure began in 1910 and ended on 1914 following the project of the architect Richard Berndl, from Munich, Germany. Now, the monastery houses the Monastic Cloister, the Basílica Abacial de Nossa Senhora da Assunção, St. Benedict's School and the College of St. Benedict.

Brazilian History
In 1641, Amador Bueno was acclaimed "King of Sao Paulo" in the aristocracy paulistana intention of proclaim the independence of Brazil. Afraid of being considered a traitor of the king of Portugal, took refuge in the Monastery of St. Benedict, asking for the protection of the monks. From the outside, the Paulistas shouted: "Save Amador Bueno, our king". From inside and afraid, he repeatedly answered, "Long live to our lord Dom João IV, king by whom I'll give my life."

The Pope Benedict XVI was received at this Monastery during his first visit to Brazil in 2007. The clock perched atop the main entrance of the Monastery triggers the bells that can be heard from many blocks away. The 6000 pipe organ is used every Sunday at 10 am during the mass that features Gregorian chanting.

Service
What: Mosteiro de São Bento
Where: Largo São Bento
When: During the week, from 06 am till 06 pm; Saturday and Sundays, from 06 am till midday.
Phone: +55 (11) 3328-8799
Website: www.mosteiro.org.br/