Cine Atlântico, Entertainment center in central Luanda, Angola

Cine Atlântico is a covered amphitheatre in central Luanda, originally called Cinema Império. Its roof of suspended metal trusses is held by cables and by pillars that rise above the roof line. The two-storey entrance block has a symmetrical facade with ramps and stairs to the upper seating; the stage block is closed and opaque. Sculptures by António Vidigal, Miranda and Zink are part of the design.

Cine Atlântico was first planned for the Bay of Luanda, partly over the water, but this was not permitted, so it was built in the city centre. Completion is dated to either 1962 or 1964, and it opened in 1966 with the film My Fair Lady. Architect Eduardo Paulino designed it, with stability calculations by engineer Henrique Jorge Pedreira da Silva later revised by Edgar Cardoso because of the complex cable-stayed roof.

The cinema was inaugurated in 1966 with the film My Fair Lady. Today it hosts not only films but also musical shows and award galas, with partnerships including the Ministry of Culture, event promoters, NGOs and churches. Most films are supplied by LNK and Lusomundo.

The building sits in central Luanda, not on the bay as first planned. The main two-storey entrance block is reached by a mixed system of ramps and stairs leading to the upper rows of the 1,500-seat amphitheatre; the bar, toilets and support services are on the lower floor. The side walls are open, so the hall is ventilated from outside.

The cable-stayed roof held a technical record for several years after its completion, showcasing innovative engineering. Engineers had to revise their calculations more than once to perfect the design.