The Order of Architects is the Portuguese public association for the architectural profession and for architecture. Created in 1998, it represents all those who exercise the profession of architect in Portugal, and regulates their practice. It also promotes and defends architecture, seeking to guarantee the quality and sustainability of the built environment in Portugal, as a right and common good for all Portuguese. The Northern Regional Section of the Order of Architects, based in Porto, is the regional structure that operates in the area corresponding to NUT II “Norte”, covering the territory of the districts of Viana do Castelo, Braga, Vila Real, Bragança, Porto and Aveiro.