Lisbon Spinning and Weaving Company

Category: Civil Architecture > Factory

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Alcântara > LXFactory

Origins of the Companhia de Fiação e Tecidos Lisbonense (Lisbon Spinning and Weaving Company)

Founded in 1838, this industrial unit played a crucial role in the industrialization of Lisbon during the 19th century.

Initial Location

Initially, the spinning activities took place at the Palácio do Malheiro, in São Sebastião da Pedreira, while the weaving was divided between the Palácio dos Condes de Camaride and a factory near Campo Pequeno.

Move to Xabregas

Two years after its creation, the company moved to the former Convent of São Francisco de Xabregas, where it centralized all its operations.

Fire and Temporary Relocation

In 1849, a fire damaged the Xabregas building, leading the factory to operate temporarily in the Palácio do Marquês de Niza.

Expansion and Centralization

Between 1846 and 1847, a new building was built in Santo Amaro, inaugurated in 1849. During the years 1851-1855, five more buildings were added to centralize the spinning and weaving operations scattered throughout the city, forming the complex known as "Fábrica Pequena" (Small Factory).

Introduction of Electricity

In 1903, the factory adopted electricity in its operations.

Workers' Neighborhood

In 1873, the Companhia de Fiação e Tecidos Lisbonense pioneered the construction of a workers' neighborhood, with housing for employees and their families.

Challenges and Changes After the Republic

After the Implantation of the Republic, the company faced challenges that resulted in the dissolution of the factory unit and the sale of its buildings, initially to the company Portugal e Colónias and later to the printing company Anuário Comercial.

Cultural Heritage

The building of the Companhia de Fiação e Tecidos Lisbonense underwent a heritage classification process, initiated in 1997 and completed in 2007, highlighting its historical importance.

Rebirth as LX Factory

In 2008, Mainsite, a real estate company, acquired the site and transformed it into a creative and experiential center, maintaining the industrial spaces and attracting arts companies, shops, cafes and restaurants. Today, LX Factory is a shopping and leisure destination with around 50 stores of various brands and types, offering a unique experience to visitors.

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

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