Astória Hotel Building

Category: Civil Architecture > Hotel

District: Coimbra > Coimbra > Coimbra > Baixa

Location

The Hotel Astória Building stands imposingly in Coimbra's Baixa, one of the city's most vibrant and traditional areas. Its central location ensures its natural integration into the urban landscape, allowing it to be an easily identifiable landmark for those exploring this historic area. Its presence contributes to the distinctive atmosphere of the Baixa, marking its immediate surroundings.

History and Legacy

Inaugurated in 1925, the Hotel Astória Building was designed by architect Edmundo Tavares and represents an important milestone in Coimbra's urban development in the early 20th century. Its construction symbolized a period of modernization and prosperity for the city, immediately becoming a prominent venue in social and cultural life. Over the decades, the building has been a testament to Coimbra's evolution, maintaining its historical and architectural relevance in the city's landscape.

Architecture and Style

Architecturally, the Hotel Astória Building is a remarkable example of the stylistic transition that marked the beginning of the last century. Although it features elements of classical inspiration, its design is strongly influenced by Art Deco, visible in the sobriety of its lines, the geometrization of forms, and the meticulous attention to the ornamental details of the facade. The grandeur of its proportions and the quality of the materials used lend the building a timeless elegance and a striking presence in the urban fabric.

Urban Significance

Beyond its original function, the Hotel Astória Building stands as a true icon of Coimbra's Baixa. Its unique architecture and longevity have transformed it into a symbol of Coimbra from the last century, evoking a period of cosmopolitanism and urban dynamism. The building's silhouette is a distinctive element that indelibly contributes to the character and identity of the area, being recognized as an integral part of the city's recent history and image.

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