Walk through College Courtyard (Pátio de Colégio) in the historic heart of São Paolo. It was here in 1554 that Jesuits erected a church and school, which was the catalyst to the foundation of São Paolo dos Campos de Piratininga. Their goal was to teach Catholic beliefs to Brazil’s indigenous tribespeople in order to create orderly colonial settlements. Today, College Courtyard refers to a church, its museum and a vast paved plaza.
On the east side of the courtyard is the Church of José de Anchieta, which takes its name from a Spanish missionary and co-founder of São Paolo. Originally a primitive hut, it was later developed into a colonial masterpiece and recognized as the home of the city’s collegiate and religious activities. Visit today’s building, which is a reconstruction inaugurated in 1979. It features a mannerist-style façade typical of Jesuit churches.
Learn about the origins of São Paolo, the life of José de Anchieta and his Jesuit brother Manuel da Nóbrega at the Ancieta Museum. Browse an exhibit of 800 artifacts, including altarpieces, icons, portraits and sculptures. See a scale model of the early courtyard in addition to maps that highlight the evolution of the area. In a chapel is a display of Anchieta’s original clothing and his thighbone.
Get here by catching the metro to the Sé stop and then walking for about 5 minutes. Public buses also stop nearby. In the center of the square is a decorative monument. To the south is the neoclassical palace building of the Department of Justice and Citizenship Defense. São Paolo Cathedral is nearby.
Because College Courtyard is a public square, you can visit it at any time of the day to admire the architecture. Mass services take place at the church from Tuesday to Friday and on Sunday. The museum is open from Tuesday to Friday and has an admission fee. Along with your visit, have a meal at the restaurant located on the inner patio.
