Society of Love of the Fatherland Building

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Artwork

District: Açores > Horta > Horta > Matriz

Location

The Amor da Pátria Society Building is located in the Matriz area, right in the heart of the city of Horta. Its striking presence, with its distinct architecture, enriches the local urban landscape, standing out remarkably within the fabric of the island of Faial.

Legacy and Historical Role

The Amor da Pátria Society, founded in Horta on November 28, 1859, quickly established itself as an institution of great importance in Faial. Initially linked to Masonic principles, the society embraced broader objectives, focusing on altruistic, socioeconomic, and cultural actions. For over a century and a half, its history has merged with that of the city itself, becoming an unavoidable reference in Faialense culture and society. This public utility institution was honored with the Ordem do Mérito (Order of Merit), attesting to its exceptional contribution.

Imposing Art Deco Architecture

The current headquarters of the Amor da Pátria Society, inaugurated on June 30, 1934, is a remarkable example of Art Deco architecture. The project was designed by Manuel Joaquim Norte Júnior, one of the most prominent Portuguese architects of his time. The building's uniqueness and grandeur contribute significantly to the architectural beauty of Horta, being considered one of its most beautiful elements. Its value is officially recognized, having been classified as an Imóvel de Interesse Público (Property of Public Interest) in 1984.

A Space for Citizenship and Culture

This building was the stage for a wide range of events that enriched the cultural and social life of Faial. Art exhibitions, concerts, plays, and dances animated the space, alongside conferences and debates that fostered knowledge and reflection. The society played a fundamental role in education, notably through the creation of primary schools and support for the night school. Its philanthropic aspect was evident in its support for charitable institutions and the founding of the Caixa Económica Faialense (Faialense Savings Bank).

A moment of particular highlight occurred on September 4, 1976, when the building hosted the inaugural act of the First Legislature of the Regional Government of the Azores, with the presence of prominent figures from the Portuguese Republic. For four years, it served as the headquarters of the Assembleia Legislativa Regional dos Açores (Legislative Assembly of the Azores), underscoring its deep connection to the region's political history.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt