António José Gomes Primary School

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Tourist Attraction

District: Setúbal > Almada > Almada > Mutela

Location

The former António José Gomes Primary School is located in the Mutela area, in Almada, at Rua António José Gomes, number 9. Integrated into the urban fabric of the parish, it occupies its own space with a courtyard at the rear, standing out within the continuity of the surrounding buildings. Its position in the historic center of Almada gives it a setting that reflects local life and history.

The School and the Republican Ideal

Inaugurated in 1911, shortly after the establishment of the Portuguese Republic, this primary school represented a significant milestone in the educational ideals of the time. Its foundation was made possible by the legacy of industrialist António José Gomes and the initiative of his widow, Maria Soares da Rocha Gomes, who erected it in memory of her husband and to meet local educational needs. The school replaced the then existing Escola Primária União Piedense, which António José Gomes had maintained at his own expense. At that time, it was recognized as the best in the municipality of Almada, integrating into the so-called "Schools of the Republic" which aimed to modernize and expand public education throughout the national territory. It functioned as a primary education establishment for decades, until the 1980s.

Adães Bermudes' Vision

The building of the António José Gomes Primary School is a notable example of early 20th-century educational architecture, designed from a standard project by architect Adães Bermudes. Its conception reveals a plastic expression that tends towards geometrization, with volumetric control and an articulation of cubic masses distributed in a classical and symmetrical manner. It is characterized by simplicity of lines and volumes, prioritizing functionality. Of particular note are the elements that promoted hygiene and pedagogy: large windows ensuring abundant natural light and ventilation, classrooms on the ground floor, and covered recreational areas. The teacher's house, independent and integrated into the central part of the building, also deserves mention, reflecting the importance attributed to the role of the primary school teacher in republican society. Vernacular elements, such as brick voussoir cornices and multi-pitched roofs, give it a distinctive character.

A Living Heritage

The António José Gomes Primary School, once a center of knowledge for generations, continues to be a place of heritage and community interest. Although its current use is divided between research center functions, residence, and support for museum facilities as a warehouse, its historical, cultural, and architectural value remains unquestionable. This century-old building preserves a deep connection with the collective memory of Almada's inhabitants, for many of whom it represents the first contact with the world of letters and numbers. Its preservation and the discussion about its future use bear witness to the importance the site maintains for the community's identity and history.

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