Velas Town Hall

Category: Civil Architecture > Public Building

District: Açores > Velas > Velas > São Pedro

Location:

The Town Hall (Paços do Concelho) is located in the town of Velas, within the São Pedro area. The building occupies a central position in the town, standing out in the urban landscape and being easily accessible to those walking through the town center.

A Building with History:

The existence of a structure for the municipal council dates back to ancient times on the island, with records indicating its presence since at least the mid-16th century. The building we observe today originates from its construction in the 18th century, between 1719 and 1744. Over time, this edifice served different functions, having housed the court and even a prison in the past, before consolidating its role as the municipal seat.

Historical and Heritage Value:

The Velas Town Hall Building holds special recognition for its historical and architectural value, having been classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1984. This classification underscores the importance of the property within the built heritage of the Azores and the town of Velas itself.

Architectural Features:

This 18th-century palace is a notable example of the civil architecture of the period in the region, featuring markedly Baroque characteristics. Its structure reveals a solid and imposing construction. Particularly striking is the main portal, crafted from basalt stonework, flanked by columns that reinforce the Baroque style. Above this portal, one can observe the coat of arms of Portugal carved in naturally dark basalt stonework, an element that lends sobriety and dignity to the facade.

Notable Facade Elements:

Upon observing the facade, in addition to the main portal, one notices the building's base, constructed from local basalt stone, which rests on an extensive frieze. To the left of the main gate, there are two openings which, in the original 18th-century construction, were windows connected to a grain storage area. On the right side, four windows are aligned, corresponding, in the same century, to the area designated as the women's prison. The facade thus tells the story of the building's different functions and adaptations over the centuries.

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