Capuchin Convent: Suspending time...

Within the cultural landscape of Alferrara, near the city of Lisbon – Portugal, lies the ruin of the Capuchin Convent, founded in the 16th century. Its cultural significance is unmeasurable. As stewards of this heritage, it is our common duty to safeguard the continuity of this architectural and spiritual legacy. Intervening in abandoned religious heritage requires one to listen, fell wander, and convert to the minimum design the signs that emanate from a place whose meanings have changed with the passage of time. In order to mitigate potential damage, our methodological intervention process considers the perception of experiences throughout history as an intrinsic part of the site values. Consequently, although it was urgent to provide a secure use of the spaces, time is required to comprehend the cultural memory of the place. Working with built heritage intangible values, contemporary interventions have guided our architectural approach. The memories of use were incorporated within the atmospheres that the original construction suggested, calling on our senses to define new experiences in this Convent in ruins. It may now be said that this cultural heritage place has finally been returned to its community.