José Falcão Secondary School / Former Júlio Henriques Lyceum / Former National Lyceum D. João III

Category: Civil Architecture > School

District: Coimbra > Coimbra > Coimbra > Calhabé

Location

- City of Coimbra, Sé Nova, District of Coimbra, Portugal.

History and Founders

- Founded in 1836, one of the first three secondary schools in Portugal.

- Initially occupied the facilities of the extinct Colégio das Artes (College of Arts).

- Part of the University of Coimbra between 1836 and 1880, sharing rector and academic traditions.

Names and Transformations

- Liceu de Coimbra (original).

- In 1914, renamed Liceu José Falcão, honoring an important republican ideologue and former student.

- In 1928, Liceu Júlio Henriques was created, a neighbor in the same building, dedicated to a notable botanist and professor.

- In 1936, both schools were united in the new building and renamed Liceu D. João III.

- In 1974, it was re-designated Liceu José Falcão, in honor of its previous patron.

Current Building

- Designed by architect Carlos João Chambers Ramos and inaugurated in 1936.

- Built based on the principles of Modern Architecture, similar to Bauhaus and other international schools.

Composition in three blocks

teaching, physical education, and the rector's residence, connected by galleries.

- Concrete structure with wood and iron frames, standing out for its rationality and economy.

Cultural and Educational Significance

- Classified as a Monument of Public Interest since 2010.

- Pioneer in teacher training in Portugal between 1947 and 1956.

- Continuity in the education of secondary school and 3rd cycle of basic education students.

Library

- Located on the 1st floor of the central building, maintaining its original features since 1936.

- Contains old works, some from the Colégio das Artes and Colégio de São Bento, with 15th-century volumes kept in the General Library of the University of Coimbra.

- Named in honor of Professor Alberto Martins de Carvalho since 1976.

Curiosities

- Several notable students and teachers passed through this school, including Eça de Queirós, who took preparatory exams here in 1861.

- In 2015, it was classified as one of the best secondary schools in Portugal, standing out among public schools.

For Visitors

- Historical and modern architecture, reflecting a rich cultural and educational heritage.

- A walk through the building offers a journey through various eras of education in Portugal.

- Place of interest for lovers of history, architecture and education.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Escola_Secundária_José_Falcão

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