The complex modernity of Olivais neighbourhoods

Abstract

Built by public initiative in the 60s, the neighbourhoods of Olivais in Lisbon are often regarded as the first full statement of Athens  Charter`s principles erected in Portugal. However, at the time of their construction these principles were already questioned by  several architects, some of which intervened in the building projects and influenced the development of the master plans. This  article attempts to dismantle reductive ideas about this neighbourhoods that have become commonplace, exposing the  circumstances that governed its conception, identifying differences between the master plans of Olivais Norte and Olivais Sul, and  seeking to characterize and compare various types of approaches adopted by different project teams.