Pritzker Prize-winning architect Alvaro Siza completes the expansion of the Lesa do Baliu monastery near Porto in Portugal. The restored monastery will become the headquarters of the cultural Foundation Livraria Lello.
Located near the architect Siza’s hometown, the project draws on his early childhood dreams of becoming a sculptor. The free-standing Viandante sculpture he installed acts as a “poetic tribute to the pilgrim’s journey, offering visitors a tranquil space to reflect and forge deeper connections.”
The architectural addition serves to highlight the importance of Les do Baliu on the Way of St. James, thus strengthening the connection with the church itself. The space will also become a venue for exhibitions that will promote “literacy and critical thinking.”
