Gonçalves and Douradinha Cork Factory

Category: Civil Architecture > Cork Factory

District: Setúbal > Santiago do Cacém > Ermidas-Sado > Bairro da Carrusca

Location

The Gonçalves e Douradinha Cork Factory is located in Ermidas-Sado, a town in the municipality of Santiago do Cacém, within the Carrusca neighborhood. This imposing building stands out in the urban landscape, with its main facade facing an avenue lined with flowerbeds and orange trees, creating a peaceful and inviting environment. At the rear, the structure follows the railway line, integrating into the region's dynamics.

A Legacy of the Cork Industry

Built in 1927, the Gonçalves e Douradinha Cork Factory is a testament to the importance of the cork industry in Portugal, a sector that has shaped and continues to influence the economy and landscape of Alentejo. This building is not just a historical landmark, but maintains its original function of cork extraction, production, and transformation, which gives it authentic value as a living part of the region's industrial heritage.

Art Deco Aesthetics in Industrial Architecture

What most draws the eye to the Gonçalves e Douradinha Cork Factory is its distinctive architecture, a remarkable example of the Art Deco style applied to an industrial complex. The facade of the administrative building, in particular, features a rich composition. Characteristic elements can be observed, such as the stylized pilasters, whose capitals are replaced by fluted bars, and the upper parapets that rise in stepped forms, lending a striking silhouette.

The wrought iron details enrich the ensemble, with railings displaying geometric and repetitive patterns, such as herringbone or checkered designs, emphasizing the elegance and symmetry characteristic of Art Deco. The application of blue tones at the base of the building and in certain decorative elements creates a visual contrast that accentuates the architectural lines, making it a construction with a strong visual identity and significant cultural and aesthetic value.

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