Bullring - Portalegre

Category: Civil Architecture > Bullring

District: Portalegre > Portalegre > Portalegre > Sé e São Lourenço

Location

The Portalegre Bullring is located in the Sé and São Lourenço area, an area that marks the southern limit of the city. Its location, in a peri-urban setting, is situated between agricultural land and some dwellings, giving it a more tranquil and unencumbered atmosphere compared to the urban center. Access is facilitated, particularly through its proximity to the EN 246, in the direction of Urra.

A Historical Legacy

Inaugurated on June 8, 1936, the Portalegre Bullring boasts a rich history. It was built on the Herdade da Misericórdia estate, owned by the farmer José Elias Martins, who gave it its official name: Praça de Touros José Elias Martins (José Elias Martins Bullring). This influential agricultural proprietor from Alto Alentejo was also a recognized benefactor of the city, with significant contributions to the Hospital da Santa Casa da Misericórdia. Since its foundation, the bullring has remained private property, having served as the venue for countless cultural and bullfighting events over the decades.

Architecture and Recognition

The architectural project for this bullring was authored by Joaquim de Carvalho Isaac. Classified as 2nd Category, the structure was designed to host cultural and recreational events, namely bullfights, which constituted its initial use and remain its primary activity. With an approximate capacity of 5,000 seats, it is a significant building in 20th-century Portuguese recreational architecture. Its patrimonial and cultural value was formally recognized in 2022, when it was classified as a Monument of Municipal Interest, underscoring its importance to the city of Portalegre and the region.

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