The facades of Mouraria
This hand-painted tile panel not only showcases the skilled craftsmanship and tradition of handmade tiles but also embodies the essence of taking control of the future and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Mouraria. The panel was made during collaborative art workshops initiated by artist Lambert Rozema. Residents were asked to create seven facades (the number of change) using colours, windows and doors of their choice
The location of this tile panel here in Rua do Capelao reflects the origins of this rich cultural heritage as fado was born here. It serves as a symbol of unity and pride for its residents, who wish to restore the neighbourhood’s faded glory by adorning its facades with rejuvenated colours and maintaining its traditional facades.
Explanation of the panel:
The seven facades each represent a mix of Portuguese and foreign residents which are expected to live in Mouraria in 10 years’ time. The current residents wish for the return of the younger generation who can’t afford the high property prices caused by gentrification. It is hoped that this younger generation will live behind renovated façades reflecting youthfulness and happiness. Most facades have balconies much needed for communication between the locals. (Which façade doesn’t have balconies?) One façade is reserved for migrants who are invited to integrate into this neighbourhood with its history of diversity.
The houses 1, 6 and 7 represent tradition expressed in their façade colours, tiles, balconies, open windows and wooden door and window frames. Here the Portuguese residents are expected to live as they embrace tradition and would like to continue this.
Facades 2 and 4 express the use of highly saturated colours which can be seen on some buildings in the neighbourhood. These colours are not always traditional and are mostly used to attract tourism.
House nr 3 represents a grocery shop (mercearia) which the neighbourhood used to have. Residents would like to reintroduce this kind of shop as it sells all daily necessities, and it is a place where people can meet.
House nr 5 is reserved for tourists as they don’t need balconies to communicate with residents and the maintenance costs are kept to a minimum due to an aluminium door and PVC door and window frames. The use of these materials is seen as non-traditional.
P stands for park; this is wished by everyone who participated in this project as it will be a space where the future generations meet and play and have some greenery to sit in.
This panel doesn’t include the increasing use of white and beige colours which makes some streets look quite uniform. Instead, the residents have given each façade its own identity, something that reflects the character of their community of strong and proud families and which they would like to continue.