Mateus Palace
Vila Real
Mateus Palace, located in Vila Real, Portugal, is a remarkable example of Baroque architecture designed in the 18th century, likely by the Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni. The palace complex includes the main manor house, a winery dating back to the 16th century, and an elegant chapel completed in 1750. The manor features a distinctive rectangular plan with a U-shaped courtyard adorned with a balustrade and baroque statues, complemented by an ornamental pond that reflects the building's grandeur. Inside, visitors can admire intricately carved chestnut wood ceilings, period furniture, 17th and 18th-century paintings, and a library housing around 6,000 volumes, including a celebrated illustrated edition of Luís de Camões' "Lusíadas" from 1816. The gardens, originally planted in the 1700s and extensively modified through the 20th century, feature a lake acting as a mirror and a modern sculpture by João Cutileiro installed in 1981. The palace is not only a cultural landmark but also lends its name to the famous Mateus rosé wine. Since 1910, Mateus Palace has been classified as a National Monument and is currently managed by the Mateus Foundation, which promotes cultural, scientific, and educational activities within the estate.
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Consiglio: The best time to visit Mateus Palace is during spring and early autumn when the gardens are at their most vibrant. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long waits. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Guided tours provide rich historical context and are recommended to fully appreciate the palace's art and architecture. The site is accessible by car and public transport from Vila Real, and the official website offers updated visiting hours and event information.
Fatti interessanti
- •The Mateus Palace inspired the label and brand of the internationally known Mateus rosé wine.
- •The palace's library contains approximately 6,000 volumes, including a famous illustrated edition of "Lusíadas" by Luís de Camões from 1816.
- •The ornamental pond in front of the manor acts as a mirror, enhancing the visual impact of the palace's facade.
- •The sculpture of a sleeping woman in the garden lake was created by renowned Portuguese artist João Cutileiro and installed in 1981.
- •The palace's winery buildings date back to the 16th century, making them older than the main manor house.
Storia
The Mateus Palace was constructed in the first half of the 18th century under the commission of António José Botelho Mourão, the 3rd Morgado of Mateus.
It replaced an earlier family residence dating back to the early 1600s, with the winery buildings originating from the 16th century.
The chapel was completed in 1750 by the Morgado's son, Luís António de Sousa Botelho Mourão.
The palace's Baroque architectural style, characterized by decorative pinnacles and balanced facades, is attributed to Nicolau Nasoni.
In 1910, the palace was officially classified as a National Monument.
The Mateus Foundation was established in 1970 to preserve the estate and promote cultural activities, opening the palace to the public in 1961 for the first time.
Guida del luogo
Main Manor House1739-1743
The central building of Mateus Palace, featuring Baroque architectural elements such as a U-shaped courtyard, balustrades, and statues guarding the entrance. Inside, visitors can explore intricately carved chestnut wood ceilings, antique furniture from various periods, and a vast library with thousands of volumes.
Chapel1750
A Baroque chapel completed in 1750, commissioned by the son of the 3rd Morgado of Mateus. The chapel features elegant exterior and interior design consistent with the palace's style.
Gardens and Lake1700s (original), 1930, 1950s-1970s (modifications)
Originally planted in the 1700s and modified extensively in the 19th and 20th centuries, the gardens feature a lake that serves as a mirror reflecting the manor house. The area includes dense plantings of chestnut and oak trees and houses a modern sculpture by João Cutileiro installed in 1981.
Winery Buildings16th century, modified 1800s
The oldest structures on the estate, dating back to the 16th century and modified in the 1800s. These buildings highlight the estate's longstanding tradition of wine production, which inspired the Mateus rosé wine brand.
Contatto
Telefono: 259 323 121