Bairro da Encarnação

What if a neighborhood could take flight? Here in the Bairro da Encarnação, it almost feels like it could. Its unique layout, designed by Paulino Montez, resembles a butterfly, its “wings” spreading out from the central Alameda da Encarnação. The Bairro da Encarnação wasn’t always this serene. Built between 1940 and 1943, it was part of the Estado Novo’s “New Neighborhoods” program. This program aimed to create affordable housing outside Lisbon’s urban core, echoing the ideal of a traditional Portuguese village. Bairro da Encarnação followed this model, favoring houses over apartment buildings. But unlike a typical village, it incorporated elements of the burgeoning “garden city” movement. Nearly a quarter of the Bairro da Encarnação is dedicated to green spaces. These areas provided a welcome respite for residents, especially given the neighborhood’s initial isolation. The Bairro da Encarnação also boasted a unique housing approach. Three house types were available, varying in size and rent. The smallest, Tipo 1, had three rooms and were located further within the neighborhood. Tipo 2 houses featured four rooms. The largest, Tipo 3, with five rooms, were positioned along the main thoroughfares. At the heart of the Bairro da Encarnação stands the Igreja de Santo Eugénio. Consecrated in 1951, this church, with its simple design, holds a surprising papal connection. The name honors Saint Eugene of Toledo, also the baptismal name of Pope Pius XII. Inside, a fresco by Lino António depicts scenes from Pius XII’s life, including his episcopal ordination and a portrayal of the apparition of Our Lady of Fátima. Even the bronze statue of Saint Eugene on the high altar was a gift from the Pope himself. The Alameda da Encarnação, the “butterfly’s body,” leads to the church. It also connects to other vital parts of the neighborhood, such as the fire station and two markets. The markets, located at either end of the neighborhood, provided easy access to goods for all residents. This careful planning reflects the underlying principle of the garden city movement. The Bairro da Encarnação was meant to be a self-contained community where everything a resident needed was within easy reach. The Bairro da Encarnação tells a story of a planned community that sought to balance affordability, tradition, and modern urban planning principles. It’s a place where a butterfly took shape in brick and mortar, a testament to a unique moment in Lisbon’s urban development.