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Martinelli Building: A São Paulo Icon

Explore São Paulo's first skyscraper, the Martinelli Building, offering panoramic city views and a glimpse into the city's rich history and architecture.

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The Martinelli Building, or Edifício Martinelli, was Latin America's tallest skyscraper when completed in 1929. Designed by Italian architect Giuseppe Martinelli, this historic building offers stunning panoramic views of São Paulo from its observation deck and reflects the city's early 20th-century ambition.

A brief summary to Martinelli Building

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (May to October) for cooler weather and clearer views from the observation deck.
  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as the building is sometimes closed for private events.
  • Book guided tours in advance, especially for groups, to learn about the building's history and architecture.
  • Take the metro to São Bento or Anhangabaú stations for easy access to the building.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Martinelli Building is easily accessible via public transportation. From the São Bento metro station (Line 1 - Blue), take the 'São Bento' exit and turn left. The building is a short walk from the station. A single metro ticket costs R$5.20.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and 99 are readily available in São Paulo. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Martinelli Building will typically cost between R$25 and R$35, depending on traffic and time of day. Note that taxi fares have a start fee of R$5.6, and then R$4.0 per kilometer.

  • Walking

    The Martinelli Building is located in the heart of São Paulo's historic center, making it easily walkable from many nearby attractions. From the Municipal Theater, walk east along Viaduto do Chá, then turn right onto Rua São Bento. The building will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.

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Discover more about Martinelli Building

The Martinelli Building, located in São Paulo's historic city center, stands as a testament to the city's burgeoning ambition in the early 20th century. Designed by Italian immigrant Giuseppe Martinelli and Hungarian architect William Fillinger, construction began in 1924 and concluded in 1929. At the time, its 30 stories (105 meters) made it the tallest skyscraper in Latin America and the largest concrete-framed building in the world. The building's architecture blends Italian Renaissance and Art Deco styles, featuring ornate detailing, grand windows, and a prominent clock tower. Originally intended to have 12 floors, Martinelli expanded the design to include 30, with the top five floors serving as his family's residence. This personal touch aimed to reassure a skeptical public concerned about the building's safety. Over the years, the Martinelli Building has witnessed São Paulo's transformation, serving as a hub for offices, businesses, and residential apartments. The building fell into disrepair in the 1960s and 70s, but was later renovated by then-mayor Olavo Setúbal. Today, it houses municipal departments and commercial spaces. Visitors can explore the building's history through guided tours and enjoy panoramic city views from the rooftop terrace. The building has a rich and sometimes dark history. During the Constitutionalist Revolution of 1932, it served as a hiding place for weapons and anti-aircraft batteries. The building was also the scene of tragic events, including murders and suicides. Despite its tumultuous past, the Martinelli Building remains an architectural gem and a symbol of São Paulo's vibrant history.

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