São Paulo – The Brazilian ambassador’s residence in Beirut, Lebanon, will open its doors for guided tours on May 13 and 17. Designed by Brazilian architect Olavo Redig de Campos, the residence is a hallmark of architecture as it’s the fusion of Brazilian modernism with Middle Eastern influences. Registration was open, but all spots have already been taken.
This will be the second time the residence opens it doors, the Brazilian Embassy in Beirut reported. Last year, groups of architecture professionals participated, but this year registration was for the general public. Participation in the visits, including shuttle service, will be complimentary.
The cornerstone of the residence was laid in 1959 by Lebanon’s President General Fouad Chehad. It was built under the supervision of Lebanese engineer and architect George Jurdak and featured the contribution of local craftspeople and suppliers. The garden features an abstract sculpture in white marble by Brazilian modernist artist Bruno Giorgi.
Ambassador’s residence: Brazil meets Lebanon
According to the embassy, the residence translates the connection between Brazil and Lebanon and their peoples. It is located in a neighborhood called Brasília which is named after Brazil’s capital city, on top of a hill overlooking Beirut and the Mediterranean Sea. The exposed concrete is part of the Brazilian Brutalism, while the geometric shapes in tiles show the local influence.
The forthcoming tours will be led by George Arbid, director of the Arab Center for Architecture, a pivotal institution in the study of modernist architecture. This initiative is spearheaded by the Brazilian Embassy in Beirut, supported by the Guimarães Rosa Institute, and aims to foster appreciation for Brazilian architecture and enhance intercultural dialogue.
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Translated by Guilherme Miranda
