Count of Ferreira School

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Community Centre

District: Setúbal > Setúbal > Setúbal > Centro Histórico

Location

Situated in the heart of Setúbal's Historic Center, the Conde de Ferreira School benefits from a privileged position. The building is located next to Avenida Luísa Todi, one of the city's main arteries, which stretches parallel to the riverside area. Its placement on slightly elevated ground gives it a distinct visibility in the surrounding urban landscape.

Legacy and Original Purpose

This emblematic building is a testament to an important 19th-century philanthropic project. Its construction is part of a national initiative driven by the legacy of Joaquim Ferreira dos Santos, the Conde de Ferreira, who, in the year of his death in 1866, bequeathed funds for the construction of approximately 120 primary schools throughout the country. Originally designed for primary education, the school served generations of Setúbal residents, actively contributing to public education in the region.

Architecture and Heritage

The architecture of the Conde de Ferreira School reflects the revivalist style characteristic of school buildings of its time. The main facade presents a sober yet elegant design, with details such as pilastered corners and stone surrounds around the windows, giving it a classical appearance. The presence of a small bell tower at the top and the inscription of the year 1866 on the front gable are elements that highlight its historical and heritage value. In 2015, the building was recognized as a Monument of Municipal Interest, underscoring its importance within Setúbal's built heritage.

Cultural and Educational Space

After a period of structural requalification, the former school was reborn as a dynamic Center for Educational and Cultural Resources of the Union of Parishes of Setúbal. Currently, the space hosts various entities, such as the Casa da Poesia de Setúbal and the Ateliê de Ópera de Setúbal, promoting a regular cultural and educational agenda. It is a vibrant place for artistic production and education, with exhibitions and various activities, serving as a meeting point for associations, artists, and creators of the city.

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