The mansion was originally commissioned by Ernesto Dias de Castro, a close associate of the architect Ramos de Azevedo.
The house remained in the same family until 1986, when it was acquired by the state government.
It is officially named the 'Espaço Haroldo de Campos de Poesia e Literatura' in honor of the influential Brazilian concrete poet.
The name 'Casa das Rosas' refers to the extensive rose gardens that the original owner, Lúcia Ramos de Azevedo, cultivated on the property.
It survived the massive wave of high-rise development that demolished almost all other early 20th-century mansions on Avenida Paulista.
The interior contains original frescoes and decorative elements that were restored to reflect the lifestyle of the São Paulo elite in the 1930s.
The library features a significant collection donated by the estate of Haroldo de Campos.
Casa das Rosas is a historic mansion located on Avenida Paulista that functions as a specialized museum dedicated to literature and poetry. Originally built in 1935, the building was designed by architect Ramos de Azevedo in a French classical style. It is one of the few remaining examples of the grand residences that once defined the architecture of São Paulo’s most iconic avenue. The site hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions focusing on poetic works and significant Brazilian authors. The property features extensive, well-maintained rose gardens that occupy a large portion of the site’s original land. It serves as an cultural institution offering reading rooms, workshops, and literary events. The facility includes a gourmet café integrated into the grounds. Despite the modernization of its surroundings, the house retains much of its original internal woodwork and structural layout. It is managed by the São Paulo State Secretariat for Culture.
The central path leading from the iron gate to the main entrance provides the best symmetrical view of the mansion's facade.
Walk through the back gardens to escape the high noise levels of the adjacent Avenida Paulista.
Check the official website for the rotating schedule of poetry slams and literary workshops before visiting.
Visit the bookstore located inside the property for specialized titles on Brazilian literature often unavailable in commercial chains.
Do not mistake the building for a standard commercial cafe; prioritize the literature exhibits over the refreshments.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain a quiet tone inside the exhibition rooms; refrain from touching the original 1930s woodwork and frescoes.
