São Bento do Sapucaí

São Bento do Sapucaí is a mountain municipality in São Paulo state located within the Serra da Mantiqueira region at an elevation of about 886 meters. The landscape is characterized by steep terrain and forested hillsides that define this part of southeastern Brazil.

The municipality was founded in 1832 when José Pereira Alves and Ignez Leite de Toledo donated land for building Saint Benedict's church. This act formed the basis for settlement and development in the mountain region.

The Matrix Church stands at the center of town life with artworks created by regional craftspeople during its construction. Residents and visitors gather there to experience the local heritage through its decoration and design.

The mountain terrain is best explored by foot on established trails that wind through local forests. Bring sturdy shoes and water, as the paths can be steep and demand physical effort.

A large portion of the municipality is protected by an Environmental Protection Area that preserves forests and wildlife habitats. This conservation creates a balance between nature and human settlement that visitors can sense while exploring the region.

Location: São Paulo

Inception: 1832

Elevation above the sea: 886 m

Shares border with: Campos do Jordão, Brasópolis, Gonçalves, Paraisópolis, Piranguçu, Santo Antônio do Pinhal, Sapucaí-Mirim

Website: http://saobentodosapucai.sp.gov.br

GPS coordinates: -22.68889,-45.73083

Latest update: December 6, 2025 21:30