Faro is set to become a stage for lovers of architecture, design and urban heritage once again as it hosts the fourth edition of The Modernist Weekend between November 7 and 9, exploring the dialogue between Brutalism, Modernism and landscape design.
This year’s event introduces new walking tours through Faro’s gardens and modernist landmarks. Sónia Azambuja, professor of landscape architecture at the University of the Algarve, will guide visitors through green spaces such as the Jardim da Alameda, highlighting exotic plant species and their interplay with the town’s modernist layout. Meanwhile, Pedro Calado and Francesca Vita, also from UAlg, will lead the “Brutalism Undercover” tour at the Penha Campus.
The programme also features art and photography. On Friday, November 7, Gama Rama Gallery opens “Through the Glass, All the Colours”, with works by Graça Paz and Bruno Grilo, curated by José Jesus. That evening, Arco Gallery presents a photography exhibition, “Manuel Gomes da Costa, Modernist Architect”, complemented by an outdoor exhibition in Jardim Manuel Bívar, dedicated to the pioneering Algarve architect inspired by Oscar Niemeyer and Le Corbusier.
On Saturday, the historic Club Farense hosts a conference, “Modernism + the Algarve: Minority Interest or Public Priority?”, and a preview of “Faro Modernism”, a forthcoming book by Richard Walker. The evening ends with a concert by Funkynoise.
The Modernist Weekend was founded by Angélique and Christophe de Oliveira of The Modernist, described as a “refuge for architecture lovers in the Algarve,” in partnership with Associação Picada Cultural and supported by Faro municipal council. The couple, based in the Algarve since 2018, created the event to raise awareness of mid-century modern architecture – a passion reflected in their own property at Rua Dom Francisco Gomes 27, designed by Joel Santana in 1977.
Last year’s edition attracted more than 500 participants, most of them international visitors from the UK and France.
All walking tours are conducted in English, limited to 30 participants, and require advance registration. Open houses cost €10 (one hour) and walking tours €20 (1.5 hours). All exhibitions and concerts are free.
Full programme and registration at www.themodernistweekend.com.
