The administration of the municipality of São Leopoldo has been committed since 2022 to a significant project to acquire and revitalize the emblematic building that was once the headquarters of Unisinos. This property, a true symbol of the city, is strategically located in the heart of São Leopoldo, flanked by Dom João Becker and Brasil avenues, in addition to Praça Tiradentes. The area, with approximately 7,000 m² of land and more than 11,000 m² of built area, is located next to the Administrative Center and is recognized for its historical importance, being protected as a historical heritage site.
The Municipal Executive defends the initiative to acquire the building as part of a larger revitalization project and emphasizes the importance of this step for the city. At the same time, Rua Independência is receiving improvements and efforts are being made to upgrade the historic center.
Recently, on January 24th, the Municipal Executive issued a decree, nº 10.672/24, classifying the building as Public Utility. This step is decisive for the expropriation process. The city hall plans to house the Municipal Department of Education (Smed) in the building, as well as government technical facilities and spaces for the City Council.
The next stage of the project involves the detailed assessment of the property, a fundamental step to advance the process of expropriation and transformation of this historical heritage into a space of public and cultural value for the residents of São Leopoldo.
Gaucho historical heritage
Unisinos’ historic original headquarters in São Leopoldo, now a space for social projects, reflects the city’s rich educational and architectural history.
Located in São Leopoldo, the first headquarters of University of Vale do Rio dos Sinos (Unisinos) played a crucial role in education until 1974, when the rectory was transferred to the Cristo Rei neighborhood. Currently, this historic building is home to several of the university’s social projects.
As a building protected for its historical value, the structure requires special care and strict bureaucratic procedures for any renovation. Authorizations are required from both State Historical Heritage Institute (IPHAE) and the Municipality of São Leopoldo. These procedures ensure the preservation of the building’s original architectural characteristics, a fundamental aspect in maintaining its historical integrity.
This building is not only an architectural landmark, but also a significant cultural symbol for São Leopoldo. Representing the city’s initial nucleus since 1877, the former headquarters of Unisinos plays a vital role in preserving the region’s historical and cultural memory.
The complex that makes up the former headquarters of Unisinos was built between 1876 and 1890. This architectural project began with the construction of the Nossa Senhora da Conceição Church by the Jesuits, followed by the construction of Colégio Conceição and Colégio São José, active from 1872 to 1922.
The design of this historic site is attributed to architect Johann Grünewald, known for his mastery in the construction of Gothic cathedrals and a graduate of the Köln School in Germany. In São Leopoldo, Grünewald, affectionately called ‘Mestre João’, is also recognized for his work on the Igreja Matriz da Conceição and the finishing of the Porto Alegre Cathedral, reinforcing his architectural legacy in the region.