Amazing Sculpture Covering the Market in Northern Portugal

Project: Municipal Market of Famailliao
Architects: Rui Mendes Ribeiro
Location: Vila Nova de Famailliao, Portugal
Area: 40 343 sq ft
Photography: Ivo Tavares Studio

Historical Context

Opened on September 21, 1952, the construction of the Municipal Market of Famailliao had a dual purpose: on one hand, to reduce congestion at the old fairgrounds (nowadays Maria II Square), and on the other hand, to create a more pleasant space with better hygienic conditions.

Urban Environment

The main building consists of three adjacent rectangular blocks, with a tower where the city coat of arms is located, indicating the transition between Maria II Square and Captain Manuel Carvalho Street.

On a higher level, access to the inner market courtyard (square) is provided through two entrances — one on the north side, along Captain Manuel Carvalho Street and another on the west, via Maria II Square. The inner courtyard, located at a lower level, is supported by three buildings where meat, fish and fruits were sold. The main volume that was preserved and renovated within the architectural project has a broken-line form on plan, but at a higher level corresponds to the street facade. Internal spaces are occupied by various trading points (shops).

Concept

The intervention at the Municipal Market of Famailliao aims to reconstruct it in order to enhance its architectural character and improve existing conditions. Thus, apart from intervention into the existing building, a new metal structure was built to meet both permanent and cyclical market needs, as well as allowing for a new urban facade facing Marshal Humberto Delgado Avenue and Mousinho de Albuquerque Square.

The cladding of the new block provides protection from sun and rain, while also serving as a reference to the preceding triangular tower module which allows deeper integration into its surrounding environment.

- Project description and images provided by Ivo Tavares Studio