Tapada do Outeiro

Category: Civil Architecture > Thermoelectric Plant

District: Porto > Gondomar > Broalhos

Origin and Purpose

- Founded in 1954 by Empresa Termoelétrica Portuguesa S.A.R.L.

- Built to supply the country's growing energy demand during its industrial development.

- Contributed to the appreciation of national energy resources, including coal from the Douro region.

- Natural gas combined cycle power plant with an installed capacity of 990 MW, consisting of three 330 MW units, each equipped with a gas turbine and a steam turbine in series, both connected to the same generator. Between the generator and the steam turbine there is a synchronized clutch.

Imposing Architecture

- Stands out in the landscape due to its unique brick cladding.

- The plant's layout, following the Douro River's slope, is impressive.

- The design is marked by three prismatic volumes that go beyond their industrial function.

Notable Elements

- Boiler House: An impressive building with brick facades, concrete details, and narrow, vertical windows.

- Command and Office Building: Connected by metal walkways and characterized by its unique reinforced concrete structure.

- Impactful Entrance: A vertical glass entrance stands out, with a staircase that is also an artistic piece.

Influences and Legacy

- Reflects the pursuit of technical and industrial grandeur of the time.

- Demonstration of the advancement of reinforced concrete construction techniques.

- Shows the influence of international trends in architecture.

Tourist Visit

- Explore the remarkable industrial architecture of Tapada do Outeiro.

- Contemplate the brick facades and concrete details of the Boiler House.

- Stroll along the metal walkways and enjoy the view of the Douro River.

- Be sure to note the impactful entrance, with its artistically composed staircase.

Sources: http://www.trustenergy.pt/pt/activity/asset/tapada-do-outeiro