Recreative Society União Pragalense

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Community Centre

District: Setúbal > Almada > Pragal > Ramalha

Location

The Sociedade Recreativa União Pragalense is located on Rua da Sociedade Recreativa União Pragalense, in the heart of Pragal, Almada. This street is recognized as one of the main arteries of the parish, giving the building a central presence in the Ramalha area. Its prominent position makes it a landmark for the local community and visitors to this area.

A Century of History and Origins

Founded on July 2, 1919, the Sociedade Recreativa União Pragalense is one of the oldest associations in the municipality of Almada and the oldest in the parish of Pragal. Its genesis dates back to the initiative of a local musical group, known as “Os Fixes,” who were looking for a suitable space for their rehearsals and activities. This desire led to the creation of a cultural and recreational collective, which quickly became a pillar in the community's social life.

Cultural and Community Legacy

Since its early years, the Sociedade Recreativa União Pragalense has been dedicated to promoting various cultural expressions. The creation of a theater group, the organization of associative dances, and cultural colloquiums marked the beginning of its vocation. In 1948, an important milestone was the inauguration of its library, which played a vital role in the personal development and literacy of its members. This space even hosted Esperanto classes, reflecting its progressive spirit and its importance in disseminating knowledge within the community.

The Symbolic Building

The current headquarters of the Sociedade Recreativa União Pragalense is, for many, the ex-libris of Pragal. The construction of this building, started in 1960 and completed seven years later, was the result of a remarkable collective effort. The mobilization of members and the general public was fundamental to the realization of this project, demonstrating the strength and unity of the Pragalense community in achieving a shared vision. The building is not just a structure, but a testament to the community's capacity for achievement.

Evolution and Dynamism

Over the decades, the Sociedade Recreativa União Pragalense has adapted to the needs of its community. From the mid-1970s onwards, there was a growing demand for sports activities, especially from young people. In response to this trend, the collective integrated various disciplines, from gymnastics and table tennis to women's basketball, which became a unique project in the municipality of Almada. The former ballroom was transformed into a functional sports hall, reflecting its capacity for renewal and its commitment to well-being and physical activity.

Mark of Recognition

The dedication and impact of the Sociedade Recreativa União Pragalense on the community were publicly recognized in 1999, when the city of Almada awarded it the Gold Medal for Sporting Merit. This distinction highlights its fundamental role in promoting sports and valuing the principles of solidarity and work. The collective continues to develop projects in partnership with local entities today, maintaining its commitment to personal development and the promotion of healthy habits among different generations.

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