The award highlights the transformation of the site into a new cultural hub that brings together two nationally significant heritage landmarks: the 12th-century Islamic Hammam — the only documented example in Portugal and one of the best-preserved on the Iberian Peninsula — and the Barreto Manor House, dating back to the 15th century.

Selected from projects submitted from more than 70 countries, the jury praised the way the architecture reconnects fragmented layers of history while creating a contemporary cultural space for the 21st century, according to the Loulé Municipality website.

Led by Portuguese architecture studio vmsa in collaboration with the municipality of Loulé, the project followed a careful restoration approach focused on preserving archaeological evidence and allowing each historical period to remain visible and distinct.

Among the elements highlighted by the international jury were the integration of a modern protective structure over the baths, advanced engineering solutions to stabilise the monument, and the meticulous restoration of the manor house columns, informed by extensive archaeological mapping.

What was once an inaccessible ruin has now become a fully integrated museum and cultural experience. The project had already played a key role in the site's classification as a National Monument and had previously received Portugal’s National Urban Rehabilitation Award.

Considered one of the world’s leading architecture awards programmes, the Architizer A+Awards reaches an audience of more than 400 million people. Fewer than 10% of submitted projects receive a Special Mention, placing the Loulé restoration among the most remarkable architectural works recognised globally this year.

Beyond aesthetics, the awards celebrate architecture with social and cultural impact — and the recognition of Loulé reinforces the project as an international example of how heritage restoration can strengthen identity, tourism and cultural life.