Bandstand

Category: Civil Architecture > Bandstand

District: Santarém > Tomar > Tomar > São João Baptista e Santa Maria dos Olivais

Location

In the heart of Tomar, in the Várzea Pequena area, stands the Bandstand, a striking element of the urban landscape. Its central position makes it a landmark and an easily accessible space for those strolling through the city, inviting moments of pause and contemplation in the tranquil environment that surrounds it.

A Witness to the Past

The Tomar Bandstand is a structure with a centenary history, having been inaugurated on December 5, 1897. At that time, it stood out as the only one of its kind in the city, commissioned by the municipality. Its construction marked a moment of celebration for the community, with the presence of a military band and local philharmonic orchestras, highlighting its central role in the public life of the era. The year 1897 is engraved on the bandstand's railings, a detail that evokes its origin and legacy.

Art and Constructive Detail

The beauty of the Bandstand lies in its details and the quality of its construction. The stonework, crafted in the Quarry by Francisco da Costa Gonçalves, is complemented by the metal structure, sourced from a foundry in Porto. The original painting, entrusted to Manoel da Silva Baptista, a local artist, already gave it a refined aesthetic in 1897. Over the decades, the Bandstand has undergone interventions to preserve its charm, having been restored in 1997 and recently benefited from improvements, ensuring its maintenance and its status as a historical and architectural landmark of the city.

Heart of Várzea Pequena

Since its inauguration, when Várzea Pequena was filled with people of all social classes to attend concerts, the Bandstand has established itself as the true heart of the area. Although its main function has traditionally been linked to music and public events, today it remains a meeting and socializing point. It is an element that invites rest and observation, contributing to the serene and welcoming atmosphere of Várzea Pequena, where one can appreciate the architecture and daily life of Tomar.

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