Heritage Journey: 5 Highlights for the Weekend

Inspired by the traditional French event Journées du Patrimoine, the Heritage Journey of São Paulo arrives in 2025 with the largest program since its inception ten years ago. There will be more than 300 free activities, between August 16 and 17, inviting the public to rediscover the city from different perspectives — from music and gastronomy to arts and architecture. The theme for this year, "Time in Sense", proposes that the urban experience be guided by the five human senses. The proposal connects past and present through workshops, visits to historical buildings, and artistic presentations. The expectation is to receive between 10,000 to 15,000 visitors over the weekend. Among the highlights of the Heritage Journey program are:

1. Visit to the Sampaio Moreira Building

As the first skyscraper in the capital, the Sampaio Moreira is a landmark of the verticalization of São Paulo and a notable example of modern paulista architecture. In partnership with the heritage journey, the Vai de Roteiro project proposes guided visits, exploring both the interior of the building and its historical context. The visits occur on August 15 (4 PM), 16, and 17 (10 AM and 2 PM), with a meeting point at the booth in front of Shopping Light. Slots are limited, and registration must be done through Sympla. Address: Rua Líbero Badaró, 346 - Historic Center of São Paulo.

2. Oscar Niemeyer's architecture in downtown São Paulo

A tour that revisits the influence of Oscar Niemeyer on the urban landscape of São Paulo, traversing iconic buildings designed by the architect located in the Center. The activity highlights architectural features, impact on the urban landscape, and connection to the city's history. The visit takes place on August 17, from 10 AM to 12 PM, with a meeting point at the Copan Building. Registrations are in person, 30 minutes before the start, and slots are limited to only 15 participants. Address: Av. Ipiranga, 200 - Historic Center of São Paulo.

3. The residential work of Vilanova Artigas

In the residence designed by Vilanova Artigas for his family, the itinerary dives into the ideas that shaped his architectural production. Exposed concrete, integration of spaces, and the social dimension of architecture are explored through his iconic residential projects — including the houses of the Taques Bittencourt family. More than studying concepts, the proposal is to reflect on how Artigas used architecture to propose a democratic way of life. The guided visit takes place on August 17, from 2 PM to 4 PM. There were 30 slots offered to those interested in the tour, and the applicants will be subjected to a prior lottery. Address: Rua Barão de Jaceguai, 1151 - Campo Belo.

4. Dona Sebastiana de Souza Queirós' House

Built in 1910 for the coffee elite, the mansion is a portrait of the urban and social transformations of the early 20th century. Listed by the municipality, it now houses the National Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN). During the Heritage Journey, it will be possible to visit its main rooms and learn more about its historical context. The visits occur on August 17, from 1 PM to 5 PM, with groups of up to 20 people formed on a first-come, first-served basis. Address: Av. Angélica, 626 - Santa Cecília.

5. Free entry to 26 museums

On August 16 and 17, museums from different regions of the city — Center, West, East, and South — will open their doors for free. The public will be able to explore collections such as those of the MASP, Pinacoteca, Museum of Football, Museum of Immigration, Afro Brazil Museum, and Museum of Indigenous Cultures. The hours vary by location, but most institutions operate from 9 AM to 8 PM. An opportunity to experience art, history, and culture in spaces that are part of São Paulo's identity.