The decision, made by order of the President of the Board of Directors of Cultural Heritage, I.P., João Soalheiro, following a proposal from the Department of Cultural Assets, initiates the process that could lead to the classification of this heritage ensemble. The Mayor of Vendas Novas, Ricardo Videira, described the step as "important for the recognition and safeguarding of Vendas Novas's historical and architectural heritage," praising the commitment of Cultural Heritage and other individuals.
The mayor also highlighted the decision's importance for the future of the complex, privately owned by the company MEO. "We hope this process will contribute to ensuring the preservation of the integrity of this heritage and its elements of greatest historical, architectural, and artistic value," he stated, expressing the ambition to find solutions to halt the site's degradation and promote its recovery.
The former Marconi Radio station, deactivated in 2013, played a significant role in international communications. The complex includes a residential area and the São Gabriel Chapel, inaugurated in 1951, designed by architect Jorge Segurado with stained glass by Almada Negreiros. It was the first temple worldwide dedicated to the patron saint of telecommunications.
With the procedure opened, the ensemble now benefits from the legal regime applicable to properties undergoing classification, which also covers properties within the respective general protection zone, extending 50 meters from their external boundaries. The justification, order, and plan are available for public consultation on the websites of Cultural Heritage, CCDR Alentejo, and the Vendas Novas Municipal Council.
