Aragua Governor’s office Building

Hello, architecture and design lovers of the Hive web 3! I am pleased to share with all of you this post about a very representative architectural work of the city of Maracay, in my home state of Aragua, Venezuela. This is the governor's building, formerly known as the headquarters of Corpoindustria, founded in the year 1974. This entity was formerly dedicated to the development of small and medium industry, through loans and financing plans.

The monumental building, designed by architect José Puig Abuli in a mainly brutalist style, is located in the northern area of Maracay as part of a complex that includes the Military Academy, the City Hall and the Municipal Courts. It should be noted that this is one of several buildings that had other functions and then were destined to house offices of government bodies.

The brutalist style is characterized by its simple, unornamented forms made of reinforced concrete. In the specific case of this work we can appreciate asymmetrical facades, eaves and two-story floors, which give the building a rather industrial touch that I really love.

The building consists of a total of six floors, with a mezzanine, a basement and an atrium-like ground floor. The stairways are naturally illuminated by inlaid stained glass windows. It also has an auditorium, former home of the National Cinematheque, which today is used for various events, mainly for political purposes.

The iconic hexagonal shape of the building is inspired by the logo of the former Corpoindustria. On both sides of the building we can see two hexagonal plates also made of reinforced concrete in clean work with triangular indentations. This innovative design for the time of its construction and even for today make the current headquarters of the governor's office one of the most emblematic works of contemporary architecture of the city, and it is an extraordinary work that jumps at the sight of those who pass through the surroundings. I remember that since I was a child I was impressed with this building every time I went with my family to the northern part of the city, specifically when we went to the zoo.

This building must be difficult to maintain due to its large size and shape, perhaps that is why it is not in the best condition, probably this is also due to poor management by those who are in charge of it today. I only hope that soon they can make a restoration and beautification project of this stunning architectural icon.

Thank you for coming here, I appreciate your time. I hope you liked to know this building if you did not know it, and if you ever visit the city of Maracay I invite you to stop by to appreciate its majesty. The headquarters of the state government, former Corpoindustria is undoubtedly a monument that exalts and prides the Aragua’s people. See you next time!