Architecture of Santos Narratives about seaside tourism Jaqueline Fernández Alves

Abstract

The city of Santos was known in the early 20th century as an important tourist resort. Casinos gradually proliferated, as did several hotels and guesthouses on the seafront, which shared the bucolic environment with the imposing mansions and country houses of wealthy people. Memories of this era abound, although the preservation of the buildings that could have made up this urban memory was neglected, and they were completely demolished. The architecture that replaced these heritage sites was modern, and, as at the beginning of the occupation, the waterfront ended up becoming a showcase of new buildings, with innovative renovation programs for those who wanted to enjoy the weekend at the beach. This text addresses these two manifestations that consolidated the Santos waterfront as one of the most sought-after beaches in the State of São Paulo.