National Theatre São João

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Theatre

District: Porto > Porto > Porto > Centro Histórico

Location

The São João National Theatre stands in Praça da Batalha, a central point in the historic center of the city of Porto. This privileged position places it on an urban axis of great importance, facilitating access for those who walk through the historic streets and squares of the locality. Its striking presence in the urban landscape contributes to the identity of the square.

A History of Renaissance

The history of the São João National Theatre is a narrative of persistence. Its origins date back to a building constructed in 1794, on the initiative of Francisco de Almada e Mendonça, with a project by the Italian architect Vicente Mazzoneschi. Then known as the Royal Theatre of São João, it was inaugurated in 1798 and was the first building in Porto conceived from scratch exclusively for performances, initially dedicated to Italian opera.

However, a violent fire in 1908 completely destroyed the theatre. The city's resilience led to its reconstruction, initiated in 1911, under the project of architect Marques da Silva. The new building opened its doors in 1920. Years later, in 1932, the city's theatrical activity declined, and the space adapted, becoming the "São João Cine". The Portuguese State acquired it in 1992 and, after a significant restoration between 1993 and 1995, the theatre fully regained its original vocation, being reclassified as a national monument in 2012.

Architecture and Artistic Expression

The current building, designed by Marques da Silva, presents a robust and imposing appearance. Its main facade, inspired by the renewal of the Louis XVI style, is highlighted by four Ionic columns, between which open three full-arch windows and as many doors. These elements lend it a grand and classical presence in the setting of Praça da Batalha.

Inside, the decoration of the performance hall and the main lounges was entrusted to notable artists of the time. The painters Acácio Lino and José de Brito brought the spaces to life, while the sculptors Henrique Moreira, Diogo de Macedo, and Sousa Caldas contributed with their works. The latter are responsible for the four allegorical figures, symbolically positioned on the frieze of the entablature, which represent Goodness, Pain, Hatred, and Love, elements that invite reflection on the very nature of dramatic art.

A Cultural Stage in Porto

Today, the São João National Theatre asserts itself as one of Porto's main cultural buildings, dedicated to the presentation of theatre performances. Its mission focuses on promoting regular contact between the public and benchmark works, both classical and contemporary, encompassing national and universal dramatic repertoires. It is a space where the diversity of genres and styles enriches the city's cultural offerings, consolidating its position as an essential hub for Porto's artistic scene.

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