Santo António neighborhood.

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Viana do Castelo > Ponte da Barca > Ponte da Barca > Cruzeiro

Location

The Santo António Neighborhood is located in the Cruzeiro area, in the welcoming town of Ponte da Barca. Positioned on the left bank of the Lima River, this neighborhood extends along the southern boundary of the urban area, marking a phase of the town's expansion. Its setting offers a mix between the residential environment and the surrounding rural landscape, with land still dedicated to cultivation, providing a tranquil atmosphere and a moderate perspective on the surrounding scenery.

Historical and Architectural Value

This housing complex, built in phases between 1981 and 1989, constitutes a notable example of 20th-century residential architecture in Portugal. It was conceived as a public housing project, reflecting the urbanistic and constructive approaches predominant at the time for this type of undertaking. The neighborhood exhibits a regular and organized layout, with buildings grouped in blocks that integrate into an urban density designed for the community. Its construction uses typical materials of the period, such as reinforced concrete, and its facades feature a functional design, characterized by different types of windows and distinctive elements.

Residential Environment and Green Spaces

The planning of the Santo António Neighborhood paid particular attention to common areas and the integration of greenery. The buildings are arranged to form open blocks, within which there are landscaped and tree-lined areas. These spaces, resulting from the setbacks of the buildings from the street front, contribute significantly to a more open and pleasant environment. The cobbled pedestrian paths that cross the complex invite a peaceful stroll, connecting the various areas and allowing one to appreciate the harmonious organization of the neighborhood.

A Local Curiosity

For those who observe carefully, the Santo António Neighborhood holds a small detail that evokes its community history. On the lawn located in front of one of the buildings, specifically in lot 3, a plaque can be found. This plaque, dated May 24, 1978, bears the inscription "THE ROTARY / IS INTERESTED IN / THIS COMMUNITY", marking a moment of civic involvement and support for local development by the Rotary Club.

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