Step into the St. Benedict Parish Pillars, where time stands still in the quiet embrace of 18th-century history—each weathered column whispers tales of colonial faith and resilience. Sunlight dances through ancient cracks, turning stone into living art. It’s not just a ruin; it’s a soulful reminder that beauty endures even when the world moves on.

Everything you need to know about St. Benedict Parish Pillars
Hotel Santa Teresa is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from the iconic St. Benedict Parish Pillars. This boutique hotel blends colonial-era architecture with modern elegance, offering breathtaking views of the pillars and Rio’s skyline from its rooms. It also provides complimentary shuttle service to downtown, ensuring easy access to major attractions like Copacabana and the Selarón Steps.
Another excellent option is Pousada do Carmo, nestled in the historic Carmo neighborhood, just 300 meters away. Renowned for its authentic Brazilian decor and warm hospitality, it offers an immersive cultural experience. Both hotels are close to metro stations, making exploration of Rio’s vibrant neighborhoods seamless and convenient.
Hotel Santa Teresa is ideal for families, offering interconnecting rooms and child-friendly amenities such as a dedicated play area and secure courtyard. Located just a 5-minute walk from St. Benedict Parish Pillars, it sits amid green walking paths and kid-friendly restaurants, perfect for family outings.
The hotel also provides private guided tours in Portuguese or English, explaining the site’s history and architectural significance—ideal for educating children and adults alike. With complimentary parking and 24-hour concierge service, it ensures comfort and convenience. From here, families can easily reach major attractions like museums, parks, and beaches across Rio de Janeiro.
Head to Santa Teresa Station, a short walk from St. Benedict Parish Pillars, and take Line 1 (Red Line) of the Rio Metro. The journey takes about 15 minutes to reach Carioca Station in downtown Rio, where you can transfer to other lines heading to key areas like the financial district, Ipanema, and Copacabana.
Several bus routes, including 219 and 272, also pass through the area, offering direct access to major city destinations. For a more comfortable option, taxis or Uber take around 10 minutes to downtown, costing approximately 25–35 BRL. Use Google Maps for real-time routing, as some mountainous sections may cause delays.
One must-try experience is the guided tour of the São Bento Monastery, led by expert guides who delve into its 18th-century Baroque architecture and religious heritage. Afterward, visit Café do Carmo nearby to enjoy authentic Brazilian coffee and handmade pastries, evoking colonial-era ambiance.
Weekends bring local artisan markets featuring crafts like ceramics, embroidery, and woodwork from regional artists. Just steps away, the Rio de Janeiro Historical Museum offers in-depth exhibitions on the city’s evolution from colonial times to the present—perfect for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Rio’s rich cultural identity.
See what other travelers say about St. Benedict Parish Pillars

We booked the Corinto suite at this hotel, and it was a complete disappointment. The place was filthy—especially the hot tub, which was supposed to be the highlight of the room, but instead was dirty and unhygienic. Even though we didn’t use it for obvious reasons, there was a ridiculous leak in the room that left the floor completely soaked. We ended up having to use our face towels just to dry off. The blanket was full of holes and clearly made from very poor-quality materials. The sauna bench was greasy and stained, and honestly, we didn’t even try using it. To make matters worse, none of the hotel’s pools were operational. Overall, it was a frustrating stay with no redeeming qualities. I wouldn’t recommend this property to anyone.

Staying at Graja Hostel was an absolute delight! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the main attractions and easily accessible by public transit. The room was clean, cozy, and well-maintained, with fresh linens, comfortable pillows, and a solid mattress that made for a great night’s sleep. What really stood out was the amazing value for money—being so centrally located without breaking the bank is a rare find. The host was incredibly welcoming and friendly, going above and beyond to make sure I felt at home. Their warm hospitality truly made the experience special. If you're visiting Rio de Janeiro, this is definitely a top choice for a comfortable, affordable, and memorable stay.

Staying at Bella Ciao Hostel in Rio de Janeiro was one of the most memorable experiences I've had on my trip. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the metro and super close to everything worth seeing. The hostel offers incredible value for money, with clean, cozy rooms and a welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home. The common lounge is perfect for working during the day or hanging out in the evening with board games, movies, and great conversations. The staff and regular guests are genuinely warm and friendly—they go out of their way to make sure you enjoy your time in the neighborhood and the city. Special shoutout to Saulo, the owner—he’s incredibly kind, always available, and truly cares about everyone’s well-being. It’s clear he runs this place with heart. I left feeling like I’d made new friends and discovered a hidden gem. Definitely coming back, and I’ll be bringing my travel buddies next time.

Absolutely incredible experience! Words can't even begin to describe how amazing this hostel was. From the moment we arrived, the host welcomed us with such warmth and genuine care—so much so that it felt like coming home. The place is clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind. The bed was cozy, the space felt safe and welcoming, and the staff went above and beyond to help us with local tips, transportation, and anything else we needed. Their kindness truly made our stay unforgettable. I’ve stayed at many hostels around the world, but this one stands out for its personal touch and attention to detail. If you're visiting Rio de Janeiro and want a memorable, authentic, and affordable stay, this is the place. Can’t wait to come back—thank you for the heartfelt hospitality!

The place was absolutely terrible—run-down, dirty, and in desperate need of renovation. Everything looked worn out and unclean, and the overall condition was disappointing. The room wasn’t hygienic at all, and the facilities were poorly maintained. I wouldn’t recommend this hotel to anyone, not even a friend in a pinch. It’s a complete waste of time and money. Definitely not worth it.
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