Established in 1906, the iconic Batalha Centro de Cinema has been a focal point for film enthusiasts for over a century in Porto. Its recent reopening in 2022, following a decade of meticulous restorations, marks a renaissance in its cultural significance for the city. The highlight of the renovation is the unveiling of frescoes by the renowned Portuguese painter Júlio Pomar. Covered for eight decades due to Pomar’s opposition to the Estado Novo regime, which remained in power from 1933-1974, these frescoes were recently rediscovered under 6-8 layers of paint.
The Batalha now boasts two modern projection rooms and a dedicated 40-square-meter film room for installations. It caters to a diverse audience and shows an extensive range of films from timeless classics to contemporary masterpieces, including special cine-concert events. This broad offering ensures that the newly renovated cinema remains a vibrant and inclusive cultural hub for Porto residents.
History
The Batalha Centro de Cinema, an important monument in Porto’s cinematic history, began its journey in the summer of 1906 with regular film screenings at Salão High-Life. This initial venture, housed in a modest shack at Feira de S. Miguel, was the brainchild of Manuel da Silva Neves and Edmond Pascaud.
Under the stewardship of LuÃs Neves Real, a multifaceted personality encompassing roles as a mathematician, teacher, film critic, and founder of Cineclube do Porto, Salão High-Life soon relocated to Jardim da Cordoaria. In February 1908, it transformed into Novo Salão High-Life at Praça da Batalha, laying the groundwork for the future Cinema Batalha.
The 1940s marked a pivotal era for Cinema Batalha, with the demolition of the Novo Salão High-Life building and the rise of a new, modern cinema complex designed by architect Artur Andrade. This new structure, hailed for its radical modernity, featured two auditoriums, accommodating 950 and 135 spectators, respectively, alongside dual bars and a restaurant with a terrace.
The newly renovated Batalha Centro de Cinema includes two film projection rooms. Sala 1 is located on floor 0, features both digital and analog projection capabilities, and has seating for 301. Its design cleverly splits the audience area, offering 185 seats, and an elevated gallery with 112 seats, allowing everyone to have an immersive viewing experience.
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