The urban shape evolution in the city of Goiás, Brazil: a brief history review

Abstract

The urban complex of the city center of Goiás (Vila Boa) has its history started in the 18^th century with the foundation of the village, later vila and, then, city, and came to be consolidated as World Heritage in 2006, and until today it is an object of interest to society and researchers. Through bibliographic research, this descriptive case study addresses the main characteristics of Portuguese urbanism in colonial Brazil that were manifested in Goiás. It deals with the urban evolution of the city center and the main stages of its consolidation, with its pre-eminent characteristics, influences and architectural/urbanistic intentions and spatialization in the territory, with some of the limitations and impositions of reality. The conclusions point out that the center of the city portrays the historical periods of its life, and that it was made up, roughly, in three phases: Bandeirante, capital and one of pombalina influence. It was also concluded that some of the architectural/urbanistic intentions have been subtly lost in time, as for example, in the excess of trees in notable locations, which cover up the intended views in the original occupations, despite the zealous preservation.