Brava values its heritage: restored townhouse preserves Nova Sintra's architectural identity
City of Nova Sintra December 29, 2025 (Bravanews) - Some emigrants from the Brava island living in the USA are taking important steps to preserve their historical and cultural heritage by restoring traditional sobrados in Nova Sintra, giving back to the urban landscape one of its most emblematic features. One of the examples, carried out by Nhô Joaquim and Nha Ilda, has been widely praised by the local community, which sees this gesture as an example of respect for Brava's memory and identity.
The house, now restored, faithfully retains the characteristic architectural elements of the sobrados of Nova Sintra: the original volume, the sober lines, the balanced proportions, the balconies and details that hark back to a remarkable period in the urban history of Brava. At a time when many buildings end up losing their identity due to inappropriate interventions, this project stands out for its commitment to conscientious rehabilitation and the enhancement of existing heritage.
Nova Sintra residents stress that the restoration goes beyond the recovery of a private property. It is, they say, a direct contribution to preserving the town's image, helping to keep alive the architectural soul that distinguishes Brava from other islands in the archipelago. "When a sobrado is restored respecting its original features, the whole town wins," commented one resident.
Experts and defenders of cultural heritage have warned of the importance of encouraging this type of intervention, especially on an island where historic buildings are one of the greatest cultural and tourist assets. The rehabilitation of traditional sobrados can, in addition to preserving collective memory, stimulate cultural tourism, enhance the value of historic neighborhoods and strengthen the population's sense of belonging.
The attitude of Nhô Joaquim and Nha Ilda is seen as an example to follow, showing that it is possible to modernize and give new life to old houses without erasing their history. Their initiative is also an appeal to the authorities and civil society to create mechanisms to support and encourage the rehabilitation of Bravense's architectural heritage.
At a time when the urban future of Brava is being discussed, gestures like this reinforce the idea that development can - and must - go hand in hand with the preservation of cultural identity. The Nova Sintra of today is grateful, and the Brava of tomorrow certainly will be too.
Photo: Francisco Tavares
