Beco do Pinto, Historical alley in downtown São Paulo, Brazil

Beco do Pinto is a narrow passageway in downtown São Paulo that connects two streets through a stone-covered route. The passage runs between two historic buildings and now serves as a space for temporary art displays.

The passage was named after Brigadeiro José Joaquim Pinto de Moraes Leme, owner of the adjoining townhouse. In 1821 he closed it with a gate, but the City Hall revoked the order because the alley was a public right of way. A wall he built was demolished in 1826, and the passage reopened as Beco do Colégio. In 1849 the Marquesa de Santos obtained permission to rebuild the wall and gate.

The passage currently functions as an exhibition space under Casa da Imagem management, displaying installations created specifically for this historical location.

The passage is a staircase of granite steps with flat landings paved in Portuguese stone, so expect an uneven, sloping walk between Roberto Simonsen and Bittencourt Rodrigues streets. Gates with triangular pediments mark both ends; the Roberto Simonsen gate carries the Brazilian coat of arms in low relief. Two archaeological display cases along the way show remains of old paving.

The alley is named after a 19th century brigadeiro who once tried to keep the public out. Today it stands open as a space that draws artists and visitors.