Traveling and discovering new cultures is a passion for many people, especially those who also enjoy architecture . Buildings, houses and other urban structures also tell stories and represent the period in which they were built. They are like witnesses to the passing of time and are inherited by several generations. With this in mind, we spoke to 10 Brazilian architects and architecture firms who listed their favorite architectural destinations around the world. Take the opportunity to prepare the itinerary for your next trip! (Francisco Nogueira/CASACOR)
- Architectural work: MAAT , by AL_A office
Located on the banks of the Tagus River, the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology is fascinating, as it has very well integrated the lines of contemporary organic design and a reinterpretation of traditional Portuguese ceramics in its enclosures.
- Tour: Cais do Sodré Neighborhood
In this neighborhood, you can walk without having a specific destination. The streets surrounded by typical Portuguese buildings reveal pleasant surprises during your stroll.
The Alma restaurant offers contemporary cuisine, based on local dishes, highlighting seafood.
2. FGMF - Vicenza, Italy
"We got to know Vicenza from the Dedalo Minosse International Architecture Prize, which takes place annually in the city, and when we got there, we were pleasantly surprised. Vicenza is a city of history, culture and arts in the Veneto region and where one of the greatest architects who ever lived, Andrea Palladio, was born. The city, small and picturesque, has several Renaissance works by the architect, among them, the Basilica Palladiana, the wonderful ancient Teatro Olimpico and the famous Villa Rotonda, works built in the 16th century and which had a huge impact on world architecture. Vicenza is a very pleasant city to visit in the milder months or in the summer, with small restaurants and bars, contrasting with the ancient history of the city, in addition to being close to several other interesting cities such as Venice itself. We happened to be there during the Corpus Christi holiday, when a beautiful candlelit procession takes place through the city, a very interesting and picturesque spectacle. We recommend spending about two days there before continuing on to the north of Italy and visiting other cities such as Verona, Padua and other places full of history." By Fernando Forte, from FGMF
"For an enriching architectural trip with other advantages,
Mendoza is the ideal destination. Located at the foot of the majestic Andes Mountains, on the border between Argentina and Chile, the city uniquely combines wine, gastronomy and architecture. The gastronomic experience in Mendoza's
wineries has become
a kind of wine-Disney, with excellent facilities to welcome tourists. Alongside the cult of wine, incredible architectural temples have been developed to celebrate local culture in grand style. The most famous construction is located at the Catena Zapata winery, a grand project by Argentine architect Pablo Sánchez Elía , inspired by the Mayan temple of Tikal at the request of owner/wine producer Nicolás Catena. Despite being majestic, with an imposing pyramid shape, the “temple” is minimalist, with straight lines and few materials. Stone is the main feature, both on the facade and in the interiors, helping to maintain the cool temperature necessary for preserving the wines. In the center, misaligned metal stairs connect the four floors in a free space. It is possible to climb up to the glass dome, which opens onto the terrace, with a beautiful view of the Andes Mountains." By Gabriela Ikeda (Fernando Schapochnik/ divulgação/CASACOR)
"
Lyon is located in the central part of the east of the country and I visited after a few days in Geneva, a Swiss city right on the border with the region, to visit the
Fête des Lumières festival of lights, which transforms the city with several light installations throughout the city. In addition to the already renowned festival, the city is known for its high-quality cuisine and its historical and architectural landmarks, which make it a
UNESCO World Heritage Site . Throughout history, the city has always been a strong competitor with Paris due to its development and strategic position in the silk trade with Italy during the Renaissance and remained imposing as an industrial city in the 19th century. Today, the city is a major financial center in France, with strong chemical, pharmaceutical, biotechnology and software industries, which provides investment in art, culture, architecture and gastronomy."
By Fabiano Ravaglia Fabiano highlighted some architectural landmarks in the region:
And he gave an extra tour tip: • The Firminy complex, located near Lyon, is Le Corbusier's largest project in Europe. Here, the architect applied the principles of Modernity in the context of a large urban area. The Firminy project consists of a series of facilities around the Firminy-Vert social housing building, and is the last of the five Unites d'Habitatión designed by the architect. For the first time, Le Corbusier created a series of high-quality public cultural and sports facilities in a villeverte, following the principles of the Athens Charter issued by the International Congress of Modern Architecture (1933).
(Harry Crowder/ divulgação/CASACOR)
"I recommend the city of
Colombo , which is the capital of
Sri Lanka and the main financial center. I stayed at the home of
Geoffrey Bawa , who is the country's modernist tropicalist architect and almost no one knows about it, but he is the author of wonderful works spread throughout Sri Lanka. His house, which is
Number Eleven , you can rent and sleep there. And that is a very unique experience, which I have already done and recommend. It was a completely different perception to stay there. Geoffrey has already passed away and the place is looked after by the Foundation. In addition, Sri Lanka is a fascinating country to visit. Culturally, it is very similar to India, the religions are similar, but it is more organized, calmer and the food is delicious. In addition to the house, the architect Geoffrey Bawa also designed the
Kandalama hotel , which is the most beautiful hotel I have ever stayed in, and it is in the middle of the forest."
By Helena Camargo "
Copenhagen , the Danish capital, is an urban enclave that harmonizes tradition and modernity. Its canals, such as Nyhavn, reveal colorful facades, while
Christianshavn blends history and innovation. Architectural highlights include the Opera House and the imposing Round Tower. The city stands out for its efficient urban planning, reflected in its public transport systems and green spaces, such as the King's Gardens. The Danish approach to architecture, evident in the Danish Architecture Center and
Frederiksstaden , combines functionality and innovative design. Copenhagen is a testament to urban and architectural evolution, combining tradition and innovation in a unique landscape, reflecting the aesthetics and careful organization of space."
By Melina Romano (Jezael Melgoza/ Unsplash/CASACOR)
"
Tokyo , a dynamic megalopolis, has become an
architectural playground that attracts professionals and enthusiasts alike. Its contrasting urban landscapes, from ultramodern skyscrapers to preserved neighborhoods, provide a diverse backdrop for inspiration. The unique fusion of Japanese tradition and contemporary innovation creates an environment conducive to architects exploring new ideas and approaches, making Tokyo an enriching destination for those seeking inspiration from the cutting edge of global architecture."
By Fernanda Marques (Damiano Baschiera/ Unsplash/CASACOR)
"At the end of last year, I spent about fifteen days taking a course in
Venice . The course was basically about how architecture can positively or negatively affect our lives. It was a very interesting course with neuroscientists, anthropologists, psychologists and architects. And Venice is a magical city, where you don't hear the noise of cars. So, in itself, it is very charming in that sense. I revisited places like the
Palazzo Grimani , which has a stunning hall, the
Palazzo Fortuny , by Mariano Fortuny, who was an artist who worked on everything from architecture to fashion and painting. This
palazzo remains more or less the way he lived. And all the wonderful churches, as well as the streets of Venice themselves. For me, the
Basilica Santa Maria Gloriosa is one of the most beautiful churches I have ever been to, even in terms of energy. It is also worth visiting Venice to focus on the works of
Carlos Scarpa , a brilliant guy who reminded me a lot of Frank Lloyd Wright."
By Marcelo Salum "From
Gaudí , with his extravagant genius reflected in the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, to the minimalist elegance of
Mies van der Rohe in the German Pavilion, the city is a treasure trove of architectural contrasts.
Calatrava 's works, such as the Montjuïc Communications Tower, add a futuristic and dynamic dimension to the urban landscape, making
Barcelona an unmissable destination for architecture lovers."
By Guilherme Torres (Eduardo Martinez/ divulgação/CASACOR)
" Graz , Austria's second largest city , offers an experience that blends
history ,
culture and
architecture in a harmonious way. Founded in the 12th century, the city has flourished as an important cultural and commercial center over the centuries and boasts a diverse architecture, ranging from medieval castles to contemporary buildings. One of Graz's most iconic landmarks is the
Schlossberg , a hill that houses the ruins of an ancient castle and offers stunning views of the city. At the heart of Graz, the
Altstadt (Old Town) is a charming maze of cobblestone streets and picturesque squares. Here, Baroque and Renaissance architecture shines, with imposing buildings such as
Graz Cathedral and the City Hall capturing the essence of the city's historic grandeur. It is worth noting that Graz's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it was even elected European Capital of Culture in 2003. However, Graz is not just a city stuck in the past; It is also a vibrant hub of innovation and contemporary design.
The Kunsthaus Graz museum of modern art, created by architects Peter Cook and Colin Fournier, also known as the "Friendly Alien" due to its unique architecture, is a striking example." By Maíra Duarte
