When I was a baby, I used to go to the city of Santos, on the South Coast of São Paulo, with my parents. Obviously I have no memories of the city from that time, but I was able to create my own visual souvenirs of the city this year.
Last month I was in Santos to visit a friend and I was positively surprised by the structure of the city, but especially by its architectural relics. Because it is a historical city, since it was one of the first cities founded in Brazil (1546), Santos has many old buildings in its so-called Historical Center.
As Santos was colonized by the Spanish and Portuguese, many of its old buildings carry the DNA of the European constructions of that time.
Fortunately I had the chance to walk these streets at night, especially in the Rua do Comércio, where the studio of an artist friend is located, and where many other local artists have started to occupy buildings in the old center and change its identity.
Revitalizing old areas
Today, it's even possible to notice an interest of the local government to revitalize these old areas, which are close to the Port of Santos (one of the main ones in Brazil), and to give new uses to several properties that are in the region.
A good example of this is the transformation of the Casa da Frontaria Azulejada into a public space for shows and events. The Frontaria is one of the most significant architectural buildings in Santos, built in 1865 to serve as the residence and warehouse of the Portuguese commander Manoel Joaquim Ferreira Netto.
At a time of accumulation (and ostentation) of wealth due to the boom in coffee exports, the two-story building became known for its neoclassical-influenced facade made up of high-relief tiles imported from Portugal.
Today, in addition to the imposing facade, some beams and arches from the original building have been preserved in the space, making a visit to this place a rich and surprising experience for those who love architecture.
Another highlight of the Santos Center's nightlife is the enormous amount of free events. To attend shows at Frontaria and also at the Clube do Choro de Santos, which is located in the same block, I didn't have to spend anything, which besides being incredible is very different from the reality of my city, or of Campinas and São Paulo, where I usually go to events.
This second place also has a super cool vibe, with people of all ages, with parties that go until dawn, and it is also located in an amazing old house, right in front of the impressive Coffee Museum.
Certainly a memorable weekend this year.