Torre do Lidador, Administrative tower in Cidade da Maia, Portugal.
Torre do Lidador is an administrative building in Cidade da Maia that reaches 92 meters with 22 floors above ground. The structure's rectangular shape and prominent position make it one of the tallest buildings in the country outside Lisbon.
Construction started in 1992 under Mayor José Vieira de Carvalho's leadership in the city. Architects António Machado and Souto Moura completed the building in 2000.
The building serves as the city's administrative center and shapes how residents see their municipality's modern identity. It stands as a landmark that people across the region use to orient themselves in the landscape.
The tower is best viewed from public spaces around the city where its full height and shape become clear. Access to the interior is restricted since the building operates as an active government office.
Local residents call the structure 'The BIC Lighter' because of its plain rectangular shape that resembles the famous disposable lighter. This nickname came about naturally among people who see it towering above the city landscape.
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