Controversial New Monument in Aveiro: Álvaro Siza's Design Sparks Debate

A New Landmark in Aveiro

The unveiling of a new monument designed by Álvaro Siza, renowned for being the first Portuguese architect to receive the Pritzker Prize, is set for this Sunday at 11:00 AM. This project also includes the redesign of the Sé courtyard and has stirred up significant controversy among locals. The Aveiro mayor, Ribau Esteves, acknowledges differing opinions but insists that they will not affect the municipal administration's work. He views this project, which cost around one million euros, as a valuable addition to the city's heritage.

History of the Project

Originally proposed during the tenure of former mayor Élio Maia in celebration of Aveiro's elevation to city status, the project was shelved until now. Mayor Esteves's team decided to revive it, choosing to combine the monument with the courtyard redesign. The monument itself, a tower, has been met with mixed reactions.

Criticism from Locals

Alberto Souto, a former mayor, expressed strong disapproval on social media, calling the new monument an urban aberration. He argued that the memorial could have been placed elsewhere, criticizing its design and location for obstructing views of the museum and the Sé. Souto described it as “more of an eyesore than a meaningful tribute.”

Another local politician, Fernando Nogueira, echoed these sentiments, labeling the tower as vapid and a pastiche of historical memory, further stating that it clashes with the community's living memory.

Material Choices and Future Plans

Regarding the materials, Mayor Esteves mentioned that both he and Siza preferred to use Eirol stone, native to the area, but logistical challenges led them to opt for lioz instead. Esteves emphasized that the structure is not made of cement as some have claimed.

Bringing History to Light

The design aims to abstractly recall the medieval city wall and specifically the Porta do Sol tower. Many locals are unaware that Aveiro once had a medieval wall. To address this lack of knowledge, the municipality plans to publish a book detailing the history of the wall and the new monument, aiming to educate the public on this significant aspect of their heritage.