Category: Culture and Entertainment > Theatre
District: Setúbal > Montijo > Montijo > Bairro do Mouco
The Joaquim de Almeida Cinema Theatre is located in the Mouco neighborhood, an area integrated into the urban fabric of the town of Montijo. Its implantation reflects a phase of city expansion, marking an area that, by its presence, has gained significant cultural appreciation. This building is centrally positioned, making it a landmark in the local urban landscape.
The history of the Joaquim de Almeida Cinema Theatre began in 1957, when it was built on the site where the old Montijo Bullring once stood. It quickly established itself as one of the region's main cultural hubs, thanks to the vision of local entrepreneurs and the project by architect Sérgio Gomes. After a period of inactivity that began in 1991, the building's heritage and cultural value were recognized by the Montijo Municipal Council, which acquired it in 1999. Following a thorough requalification, it reopened its doors in August 2005, consolidating itself as the main venue dedicated to the performing arts in the municipality.
This building stands out for its architecture with sober lines, characteristic of the 1950s style, with a notable modernist influence. Inside and out, the space is enriched by sculptural pieces by artists Martins Correia and José Farinha. These works of art symbolically represent the inspiring muses of Theatre, Poetry, Dance, Music, and Talent, lending the building a unique artistic dimension. The Joaquim de Almeida Cinema Theatre has official recognition of its value, being classified as a Building of Municipal Interest since 2009.
The name of the Cinema Theatre pays homage to Joaquim de Almeida (1838-1921), a prominent actor born in Montijo who became one of the greatest names in Portuguese theatre during the transition from the 19th to the 20th centuries. Known for his versatility, Joaquim de Almeida performed on the main stages of Portugal and Brazil for over half a century, marking the history of the performing arts. The fact that the theatre bears his name perpetuates the memory of an artist whose legacy is an integral part of Montijo's cultural heritage, a place where his name is also present in the toponymy.
Since its reopening, the Joaquim de Almeida Cinema Theatre has established itself as a dynamic cultural center. The requalification intervention not only optimized the stage and performance spaces but also enhanced the public circulation areas. This renewed environment now hosts a diverse program, encompassing various performing arts, and acts as a fundamental hub for promoting access to culture and strengthening the connection between art and the community of Montijo.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.706020863158, -8.9704540842105
Coordinates DMS: 38°42'21.7"N 08°58'13.6"W
On-duty Pharmacy Montijo
