Speaker: Lucinda Oliveira Caetano. 11 December 2025 - 6 p.m. (PT) / 3 p.m. (BR).

This work reflects on the permanence of identity in certain ‘places’ in the city over time, even in the face of gentrification resulting from urban regeneration. The reflection focuses on the concept of ‘identity’, which, according to Brandão (2011, p. 63), is consistent with itself, but not necessarily constant. It can be subdivided into two aspects: architectural-urbanistic and community-based, linked to memory and local narratives. Considering the city as the sum of its physical support, community and memory, it is clear that even if the community disappears, the physical support preserves the narratives and identity of the place. Françoise Choay (2004, p.70) distinguishes between city (urbe + civitas) and urban (only built space), showing that the physical support with its own narrative guarantees the essence of the city even with gentrification. In Príncipe Real, an association of international entrepreneurs has emerged, creating a new community and sense of place, raising the question: will gentrification now include the “creation of communities” by property developers?

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