The urban transformations in the last twelve years in the historical centre of Vila Nova de Gaia

Territorial continuity with the historical centre of Oporto and patrimonial challenges in the tourism process

Abstract

The historic centres of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia while being divided by administrative borders have a territorial continuity. This paper aims to address the recent urban dynamics and transformations in Gaia, including the ones that occurred in the port wine cellars, which occupy about 60% of Gaia's historic center. In a short period of time, the fast spread of a large amount of accommodation, restaurants and other spaces of consumption is gradually leading to a new monofunctional urban zone. Besides, the intervention in buildings’ structures also deserves a reflection: refurbishments have increased while the loss of authenticity and the demolition of buildings have been observed, with irreversible effects on the historic ensemble and on the loss of the identity of the historic centre.