About São Paulo

About São Paulo, Brazil

©10Best 2010

One of the world's — and certainly South America's — largest cities, São Paulo sprawls across the landscape on a plateau not far from the coast of the South Atlantic. Established in 1554 by Jesuit priests who intended to convert the native populace and minister to early settlers, the city first took shape as an agricultural center and derived its initial wealth from coffee plantations. African slaves, brought in as inexpensive labor, added to the cultural mix and were supplemented by immigrants from all over the world in search of a better life. Large contingents of Italian, Japanese, Arabic, Spanish and Portuguese nationals contributed to the city's ethnic melting pot, bolstered by groups from Brazil itself and elsewhere in South America. This amazing, multicultural jumble imbues the city with the energy and passion that characterizes the populace as a whole. These days, industry and finance, built on coffee capital and hard work, provide a stable counterpoint to the spirited cuisine, nightlife and citizenry. To round out things, the city also boasts a strong cultural presence, as evidenced by theater, dance, and such esteemed institutions as the Museu de Arte de São Paulo and the Museu de Arte Sacra. For a dynamic dose of city flavor, stroll along bustling Avenida Paulista, or browse the Sunday markets at Praça da República or Praça Liberdade. Shopping, in fact, is a deliciously overwhelming prospect, given the legions of boutiques and venues carrying everything from native crafts to jewelry and antiques. Whatever you do, just make sure to map out a rough itinerary of your time; with more than 3000 square miles of territory and more than 19 million residents, the city has the potential to sweep you away with its size and opportunities