Iconic Cinema Império Transforms from Cultural Hub to Religious Space Amid Controversial Renovations

A Shift in Purpose for Cinema Império

The Lisbon City Council has approved a significant change in the use of the iconic Cinema Império, located at the corner of Avenida Almirante Reis and Alameda Dom Afonso Henriques. Originally designed by Cassiano Branco, this venue has been a cornerstone of Lisbon's cultural scene since 1952. However, it ceased to screen films in 1983, transforming into a place of worship for the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God (IURD) nine years later. Now, after over 30 years, the building's designation has officially shifted from a cultural to a religious space, as reported by Público.

Image credit: João Carvalho

Planned Renovations and Controversies

On December 4, the City Council approved an architectural project for extensive renovations, including an expansion of the building. Some work has already begun, particularly on the façade, but significant changes are also planned for the interior, which will involve the demolition of several architectural elements. This proposal initially received a negative opinion from the General Directorate for Cultural Heritage (DGPC) in November 2023, but this was later resolved by the succeeding organization, Cultural Heritage, Public Institute (PC).

The change in use has faced opposition from the Left Bloc and the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP), who argue that it permits new functions like administrative services, activity rooms for children and youth, training rooms, and dormitories for resident staff and students. This could lead to an increase in the building's footprint, expanding from 4,605 square meters to 5,323 square meters, which is considered a project of significant urban impact.

Architectural Changes and Community Reactions

Both the stage and the glass-fronted area facing the street are set to undergo transformations. Notably, the initial proposal to use the stage area for constructing training rooms and residences was not accepted by the DGPC. The PC has since imposed conditions for the renovation, including the preservation of mural paintings and the repositioning of the word "Império" on the façade.

Communist council member Ana Jara expressed her concerns, stating, “We are not talking about just any building; this one holds special public interest as one of the last examples from a certain era. As a classified building of public interest, the City Council should have restrained its intervention. A building is more than just its façade. We fear this is the beginning of a new wave of destruction of heritage,” as reported by Público.