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Largo do Paissandu: A Historic Plaza in São Paulo

Explore Largo do Paissandu, a historic São Paulo plaza with a rich cultural heritage and vibrant city life.

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Largo do Paissandu is a plaza in São Paulo's República district with a rich history, dating back to the mid-19th century. Once home to lagoons, it was transformed into a public square and named in commemoration of the Siege of Paysandu. Today, it's a bustling area featuring the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of Black Men and a mix of commercial activity.

A brief summary to Largo do Paissandu

  • Lg. do Paissandú, s/n, São Paulo, Centro Histórico de São Paulo, State of São Paulo, BR
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Local tips

  • Visit the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of Black Men to experience its historical and cultural significance.
  • Explore the surrounding area for local shops and eateries, offering a taste of São Paulo's urban life.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, as the area can be crowded and may have safety concerns.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the city center, take the Metro to Anhangabaú station (Line 3) or São Bento station (Line 1), both within walking distance of Largo do Paissandu. A single metro fare costs R$5.20. From the stations, follow the signs towards Largo do Paissandu, approximately a 5-10 minute walk.

  • Walking

    From Praça da República, walk east along Avenida São João. Largo do Paissandu will be on your right, about a 10-15 minute walk. The walk is straightforward and passes by several shops and landmarks.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in São Paulo. A short taxi ride from Avenida Paulista to Largo do Paissandu typically costs between R$25 and R$35, depending on traffic and time of day. Be sure the meter is running or confirm the fare beforehand.

Unlock the Best of Largo do Paissandu

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Discover more about Largo do Paissandu

Largo do Paissandu, situated in the República district of São Paulo, holds a significant place in the city's history. In the mid-19th century, the area was originally a landscape of lagoons and streams known as Praça das Lagoas. However, the city government ordered the area to be drained and terraced. In 1865, it was renamed Largo do Paissandu, honoring the Siege of Paysandu, a conflict in Uruguay preceding the Paraguayan War. At the end of the 19th century, Largo do Paissandu became a hub for circuses. In 1955, the Statue of the Black Mother was erected next to the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary as a tribute to the enslaved women who nursed babies. The Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of Black Men, consecrated in 1906, stands as a testament to the contributions of Black workers, hosting celebrations like the Liberation of Slaves and Black Awareness Day. While the area has faced challenges, including a reduction in residential use and a growing homeless population, it remains a vibrant part of São Paulo. The collapse of the Wilton Paes de Almeida Building in 2018, a former Federal Police headquarters, underscored the area's struggles with urban decay. Despite these issues, Largo do Paissandu continues to be a site of cultural and historical importance, reflecting the diverse layers of São Paulo's past.

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