Escola Central Roberto Duarte Silva: Uma fausta obra colonial, educacional e sentimental

Abstract

The Central School was built during the colonial era, starting in the late 18th century, possessing architectural, historical, emotional, and educational virtues. Serving various functions throughout its existence, it represented for many years the only academic space in Ribeira Grande. From the city's perspective, it incorporates a tripartite contrast system, whose location allowed for expansion, both through the extension of the main Terreiro street and the creation of more residential areas. The building underwent two main rehabilitation actions between 1986 and 1998, reconÞguring the functional space, replacing all old construction elements, and increasing the space to accommodate more students. There has always been care taken in preserving the architectural style. Since then, there have been superÞcial interventions such as paintings and other works focused on inclusion. Subject to dimensional evolution, it eventually sparked new perspectives regarding internal and external spaces, with due respect for the other blocks in relation to the main block. It presents simple decorative and compositional elements, devoid of extravagant ornamentation. With the advent of new infrastructure, the educational monopoly was broken, although it continues to play a central role in terms of architecture and academia.