National Association of Pharmacies

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Santa Catarina

Location

The National Association of Pharmacies (ANF) is strategically located in the heart of Lisbon, more precisely in the picturesque and historic parish of Santa Catarina. This privileged location gives it a distinct urban environment, characteristic of Lisbon's hills, where traditional architecture and the pulse of the city meet. Its presence in Santa Catarina is integrated into an urban fabric rich in heritage and the surrounding environment of the Portuguese capital.

History and Architectural Heritage

The building that houses the National Association of Pharmacies is an imposing 19th-century mansion, whose history dates back to a period after 1862. Its initial construction was an initiative of José Pedro Colares Pereira, a notable figure linked to the then owner of "Metalúrgica Vulcano e Colares". This example of 19th-century residential architecture is a testament to the opulence and taste of the era. At the end of the same century, the property was acquired by the influential industrialist Alfredo da Silva, one of the leading figures in the Portuguese economy, before passing to his son-in-law. This succession of prominent owners underscores the value and historical importance of the mansion over time, marking it with a rich heritage of notability and power.

Cultural Character and Relevance

Beyond its current function as the headquarters of the National Association of Pharmacies, the mansion is, in itself, a piece of Lisbon's architectural heritage. Its preservation allows visitors to appreciate the grandeur and construction details of a bygone era. Although adapted to its contemporary use, the building retains its essence and original character, providing a perspective on the social life and urban development of Lisbon. Its existence and maintenance contribute significantly to the city's cultural identity, keeping alive a valuable part of its built history and memories.

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