Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo

The Sights of São Paulo

São Paulo is nearly a country itself. The city claims the title of most populous city in South America, with a population of over 20 million in the metropolitan area. Composed of mostly immigrants, São Paulo is home to millions of Italians and Japanese, as well as Lebanese and Germans. São Paulo is now known as the Japan of South America, with a Japanese population larger than some Japanese cities.

In this vast city, the options for sightseeing are just as vast. The impressive Monastery of São Bento represents the influence of the Catholic Church in the city´s history. You can view this 17th century edifice run by 40 cloistered monks, and can attend Sunday mass.

The Viaduto do Chá, The Tea Bridge, is a viaduct built in 1892 and named for the indigenous tea grown in the valley. The renovated viaduct slices through the center of the city, splitting Rua Directa, the downtown sector, with the Rua Barão de Itapetininga. There you can browse the kiosks set up by street vendors.

Nearby is the Parque Anhangabaú, which is adjacent to the Praça da Sé and the Catedral Metropolitana, or the Metropolitan Cathedral. This Gothic cathedral can host 8000 people.

Another Catholic monument is the São Paulo Igreija de Sao Francisco de Assisis, a beautiful Baroque church built in 1647. This energetic church leads a variety of community programs.

Aside from the historical center, the business district lends some insight into São Paulo's immense workforce. If you climb the BANESPA building to the 34th floor, you can gaze over the downtown cityscape.

Paulista Avenue is the main drag – it's lined with skyscrapers containing top-notch restaurants, excellent shopping, museums, and hotels. Nearby is the Parque Do Ibirapuera, designed by the famous architect Oscar Niemeyer. The park features the Japanese Pavilion, built in Japan as a replica of the Imperial Palace. In keeping with the cosmopolitan nature of the city, this landmark commemorates the city's significant Japanese population.

About the Author

This description of Rio de Janeiro was written by a Brazil travel expert from the Brazil vacation specialists, Brazil For Less.

What Is The Best City District In Sao Paulo City,Brazil To Live In?

I know that sao paulo city has districts and towns etc,but i just want to know witch city is better?

Like New York, São Paulo is both the name of the city and the state. Which do you mean?

In the city, the best thing is to live near your place of employment and, if you have kids, their school.