álvaro siza shapes light and shadow in porto monastery captured by david altrath
the photographer captures the concrete extension as a study in balance, showing how the architecture highlights history without overshadowing it.
David Altrath captures historic Monastery in Porto
Hamburg-based photographer David Altrath presents his latest project documenting the historic monastery at Leça do Balio in Porto, Portugal, alongside Álvaro Siza Vieira’s white-concrete extension. The monastery, with roots in Roman-era foundations and medieval pilgrim routes, has been revitalized by the Foundation Livraria Lello as a cultural headquarters and public space. Within this renewed context, Siza’s contemporary addition forms a quiet yet striking architectural intervention that engages with light, shadow, and the existing stone walls.
all images by David Altrath
Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Minimalist Vision in Leça do Balio
Álvaro Siza Vieira’s extension is defined by two vertical volumes framing an open courtyard paved in stabilized gravel, creating a moment of stillness between old and new. The design is pared back to essentials: smooth concrete surfaces, carefully considered textures, and a meticulous play of light and shadow foster a contemplative atmosphere. Every junction, line, and opening is purposefully composed, reflecting the Pritzker Prize-winning architect’s signature clarity and precision. At the heart of the courtyard, the freestanding sculpture Wayfarer anchors the space, evoking themes of passage, reflection, and introspection. Landscape architect Sidónio Pardal extends this dialogue into the surrounding terrain with a subtle arrangement of paths and planted areas, embedding the structure harmoniously within its historic setting.
The project is documented through the lens of David Altrath, whose images capture the dialogue between centuries-old walls and contemporary intervention. The Hamburg-based photographer highlights how Siza’s architecture respects and amplifies the monastery’s historical resonance. The extension exemplifies a balance of presence and restraint, demonstrating how contemporary design can complement heritage sites without overshadowing their past.
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project info:
name: Monastery of Leça do Balio and contemporary extension
architect: Álvaro Siza Vieira
location: Porto, Portugal
photography: David Altrath | @davidaltrath
