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SAO PAULO |
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S�o Paulo is not only the largest city in Brazil, it's the largest in Latin America and the third or fourth largest in the world. The city boasts some of the best galleries and museums in the country. It has by far the best cuisine and some of the best nightlife. We had the chance to stay 3 months in Sampa in 2004. Indeed, it is a very nice place to visit. |
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| Between the Pra�a da Rep�blica and the Pra�a da S� lies the city's newest and most interesting square, the Parque Anhangaba�. Running an eight-lane freeway over the top of the Anhangaba� River that once flowed through Centro was probably not one of S�o Paulo's better planning moves, but the city recently made amends by covering a 1km (1/2-mile) long stretch of the freeway in the city with this beautifully landscaped urban plaza. |
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Anhangabau Park |
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There's been a Benedictine monastery by the edge of the Anhangaba� Valley since 1600, just a few decades after S�o Paulo was founded. The current Basilica de S�o Bento dates to 1910 and is worth a look if you're passing by, though to tell the truth, despite all the marble, wood, and stained glass that went into the construction, the net effect is far from beautiful. Visitors may be most impressed by the German organ with 6,000 pipes. Come for High Mass on Sundays at 10am, and the service is accompanied by Gregorian chants. |
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Basilica de S�o Bento |
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The city's original square located in front of the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Pra�a da S�, has recently been lovingly restored. Two files of imperial palms enclose a flagstone-covered courtyard with a sundial at the center. People stroll slowly through this area, slowing or stopping to give an ear to the ever-present street preachers. Next to this lies the new part of the pra�a, created when the subway went in. There are fountains, greenery, and lots of places to sit. Unfortunately, the area is occupied more or less full time by those with nothing to occupy their time. |
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see continuation of Sao Paulo |
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Catedral da Se |
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