Casa do Português

Casa do Português is a four-story concrete building with monumental arches located on Avenida João Pessoa in Fortaleza. The structure retains its original exterior features while currently accommodating multiple residential units.

Portuguese merchant José Maria Cardoso initiated the building's construction in the late 1940s, and it opened on June 13, 1953. This period marked a time of significant immigration and economic growth in Fortaleza.

The building reflects the architectural language that Portuguese merchants brought to Brazil in the mid-20th century, visible in its monumental arches and design choices. Its appearance speaks to the cultural mixing that shaped Fortaleza during this period of immigration.

The building is situated directly on Avenida João Pessoa and is easily visible from street level, making it straightforward to locate in the downtown area. The exterior can be viewed and photographed freely from the public avenue.

The building was originally known as Vila Santo Antônio before adopting its current name and emphasizing its connection to Portuguese immigration history. This earlier designation is rarely mentioned today, though it reflects the original purpose of the property.