O processo de invisibilidade do Palácio do Comércio de Porto Alegre

Abstract

The article investigates the reason for the current ignorance by a large part of the local population of the building of the Palácio do Comércio in Porto Alegre. Designed by the German architect José Lutzenberger and finished in 1940, the building has the monumental characteristics of a late 19th century skyscraper, and has in its interior interesting decorative details, also designed by Lutzenberger. Currently, the building is occupied by the Porto Alegre Commercial Association and office rooms with different functions. Because it is in a central and highly busy area, and has been in continuous use since its inauguration, its invisibility is remarkable. Throughout the article, an analysis will be made showing how the changes surrounding the building, caused deliberately, through changes in the city’s master plan or other social and economical circumstances, contributed to the current situation.