Mosteiro de Sao Bento (Monastery of St. Benedict), Salvador

Established in 1582, this is the first Benedictine monastery in the Americas and the first of its kind in the New World. Beyond its important role in spreading the Catholic faith, the monastery gained recognition for its extensive collection of sacred art and historical documents. Located in the upper galleries of the Basilica of Saint Sebastian, the Museum features a representative selection from a collection of over two thousand pieces, including paintings, porcelain, crystal, goldwork, furniture, ceremonial vestments, and 223 religious sculptures.

The building’s architectural value is exceptional, too, having been constructed over four centuries and showcasing a range of styles from different periods. The monastery is arranged around a central courtyard with three levels, and its church features one of Brazil’s few floor plans inspired by Rome’s Gesù Church, highlighted by a grand dome where the side chapels intersect. While the dome and vault were only added in the late 19th century, they had been part of the original architectural vision.