Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil is a free cultural center in São Paulo’s historic downtown, at Rua Álvares Penteado, 112. Its program includes art exhibitions, films, theater, music, workshops and educational events, with changing displays that can cover Brazilian and international history. The restored building is a reason to look beyond the galleries: its French-influenced eclectic design appears in both the facade and interiors. Stop by the ground-floor café for a break, or browse the bookstore between exhibitions.
A former bank turned cultural center
The building at Rua Álvares Penteado, 112, was designed by architect Hipólito Gustavo Pujol Júnior, a professor at the Polytechnic School. It served as Banco do Brasil’s headquarters in São Paulo before becoming a cultural center in 2001.
Its architecture combines French-influenced eclectic ornament with neoclassical and Italian Renaissance elements. Look for decorative details on the facade, then compare them with the interior as you move through the building. The structure uses reinforced concrete and brick masonry.
Exhibitions, performances and learning
The program brings together exhibitions, film screenings, theater, music and educational activities. Displays change, and some focus on periods in Brazilian or world history. The center also has spaces for exhibitions, a cinema, a theater, an auditorium and workshops, alongside a bookstore and café.
The venue is in central São Paulo, close to São Bento and Sé metro stations. Admission is free. For exhibition text in English, scan the QR codes provided in the galleries. Check the center’s current program before setting out if you have a particular exhibition or event in mind.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil free to enter?
Yes. The center has free admission.
What can you see and do at CCBB São Paulo?
Its program includes art and history exhibitions, films, theater, music and educational activities. The building also has a bookstore and café.
Is CCBB São Paulo closed on any day?
Yes. It is closed on Tuesdays.
Are there English translations in the exhibitions?
QR codes in the galleries provide English translations.
