Welcome to the São Paulo Museum of Art, locally known as MASP, a striking icon of modern Brazilian architecture perched right on Paulista Avenue. As you approach, you will immediately notice its extraordinary structure—a suspended concrete and glass building designed by architect Lina Bo Bardi that floats eight meters above the ground on four massive pillars, leaving a 74-meter open space beneath. Founded in 1947, this non-profit landmark stands as one of the most-visited art museums in the world and was the first Brazilian museum to display post-World War II art.
When you step inside, you are in for a world-class cultural experience. MASP holds an expansive collection of over 8,000 pieces, including an internationally recognized European art collection widely regarded as one of the finest in Latin America and the Southern Hemisphere. As you explore its spacious galleries, you can discover masterworks alongside an important selection of Brazilian art, prints, drawings, and smaller collections of African art, Asian art, antiquities, and decorative pieces.
Beyond the art, you can enjoy a site that features a vast library, film and video galleries, auditoriums, and a restaurant. Whether you come for groundbreaking design or global treasures, MASP offers an enriching stop on your Brazilian journey.
What to see at São Paulo Museum of Art
- Iconic 1968 suspended glass and concrete building designed by Lina Bo Bardi
- Internationally acclaimed European art collection, among the finest in Latin America
- Diverse holdings of over 8,000 pieces, including Brazilian, African, and Asian art
- Vast cultural facility featuring two auditoriums, a restaurant, shop, and art library
Visiting tips
Be sure to admire the unique open-air square created beneath the suspended building before heading inside to explore the galleries, restaurant, and store.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
São Paulo Museum of Art is easy to reach on São Paulo’s public transport, and pairs naturally with São Paulo Cathedral and Instituto Butantan. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our São Paulo travel guide.
See the full São Paulo travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.