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The construction of this building (called Paço Municipal) began in 1860. The commemorative medallion for this event states that the projects author was José Coelho da Gama Abreu, who designed and executed it. Over the following decades, provincial reports describe the long construction works and periods of interruption. The building was inaugurated in 1883, two years before the works completion; in celebration, the building was blessed and 47 black slaves received manumission letters.

A solid and virtually square volume, the buildings exterior is marked, at ground level, by double columns on all four corners. On the top floor, the columns are extended as pillars. Its floor plan features a central hollow formed by two patios and divided in half by the volume of its monumental staircase. The symmetry continues in its identical vestibules and in porticos supporting open balconies; the one in the main façade projects forward and is supported by double columns. Upon this façade, there are three triangular pediments marking the buildings lateral wings and its central body.

The central pediment is ornamented by statues while the lateral ones hold crowning vases. The façades are strictly symmetrical and the openings are all in round arches, with variations in their lintels. Notable features of this building are the mosaic floorings on the ground level, recovered during the restoration of 1994, and the top floor decoration, undoubtedly from Eclectic reforms in the early 20th century, or a few years before. Very elaborate stucco, European chandeliers, some of them with Pompeiian designs, rooms covered with painted wrought iron are typical of a stage of decorative accumulation, marking the apogee of rubber economy. 

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