Póvoa de Varzim City Hall Building

Category: Civil Architecture > Building

District: Porto > Póvoa de Varzim > Póvoa de Varzim > Bairro Piscatório

Location

- Located in the city center, in Praça do Almada, one of the central points of Póvoa de Varzim.

Historical Significance

- The building was completed in the late 18th century and is the seat of municipal power in Póvoa de Varzim.

- It has been classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1974.

Project and Architecture

- Designed by the French engineer Reinaldo Oudinot, who also worked on important projects in Porto.

- The building's style follows the principles of neoclassicism, typical of the late 18th century, with a solid and robust appearance.

- On the ground floor, the stone arches stand out, a classic detail of the time.

- At the top of the building, there is a large coat of arms with the royal arms of Portugal.

Functions over Time

- Inaugurated for political functions in 1807, it served as the municipal headquarters and accommodation for the corregedores (local authorities).

- In addition to political functions, the building housed administrative offices, a space for hearings, and even a primary school classroom.

- The classroom was also used as a theater, very popular with the local elite.

Decoration and Modern Interventions

- Between 1908 and 1910, the Bonitos de Amorim family sponsored a remodeling, adding Portuguese-style tile panels.

- The tiles were designed by the Belgian painter Joseph Bialman, contributing to the unique and decorative appearance of the building.

Curiosity

- In the mid-19th century, the building was one of the first constructions that caught the attention of travelers arriving in the town, due to its central location and majestic appearance.

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

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