The research on the architecture and urbanism of the former Portuguese Africa allows us to consider and to establish the real intrinsic value, typological and morphological diversity, and the lengthy duration of the l...The research on the architecture and urbanism of the former Portuguese Africa allows us to consider and to establish the real intrinsic value, typological and morphological diversity, and the lengthy duration of the legacy of this architectural/urban heritage. Portuguese colonization in Africa produced more recently, mostly in the period 1950-1975, some vast and great material values, of which seven or eight main cities, including the vast contents of their modern architecture, are striking examples. We can evaluate the most positive aspects with future impact represented by this Portuguese architects＇ practice （cultural ethics, use of modern technology, and service to society） and the architectonic work produced during that era. Although these cities and its architecture were created within a late colonial context of indisputable discrimination, they have prevailed despite wars and circumstantial abandonment. Now they represent a consistent material basis for the modernization and/or revitalization of urban life in these countries. Architects that are at present working and intervening in these countries should understand this ambivalence and complementary nature between the ex-colonial ＂concrete city＂ and the ＂informal city＂ pre- and post-colonial, so that their performance is socially and culturally informed, correct, and positive.展开更多
文摘The research on the architecture and urbanism of the former Portuguese Africa allows us to consider and to establish the real intrinsic value, typological and morphological diversity, and the lengthy duration of the legacy of this architectural/urban heritage. Portuguese colonization in Africa produced more recently, mostly in the period 1950-1975, some vast and great material values, of which seven or eight main cities, including the vast contents of their modern architecture, are striking examples. We can evaluate the most positive aspects with future impact represented by this Portuguese architects＇ practice （cultural ethics, use of modern technology, and service to society） and the architectonic work produced during that era. Although these cities and its architecture were created within a late colonial context of indisputable discrimination, they have prevailed despite wars and circumstantial abandonment. Now they represent a consistent material basis for the modernization and/or revitalization of urban life in these countries. Architects that are at present working and intervening in these countries should understand this ambivalence and complementary nature between the ex-colonial ＂concrete city＂ and the ＂informal city＂ pre- and post-colonial, so that their performance is socially and culturally informed, correct, and positive.
