Cinderella's House

Category: Civil Architecture > Manor House

District: Aveiro > Águeda > Borralha > Quinta do Atalho

Location

Casa da Borralha is situated in the town of Borralha, within the Quinta do Atalho urbanization, in the municipality of Águeda. This setting provides a serene and discreet environment, away from the hustle and bustle, yet accessible. The site is situated in an area that, despite some urbanization, maintains a sense of space and tranquility, conducive to contemplating its heritage.

The Palace and Its History

Known as both Casa da Borralha and Palácio da Borralha, this imposing building represents a significant landmark of Águeda's cultural heritage. Its construction dates back to the 19th century, more precisely 1843, having been commissioned by Francisco Caldeira Leitão Pinto and Ignez de Vera Geraldes Mello e Bourbon, figures of the local aristocracy. The palace stands on the foundations of an earlier 16th-century construction, of which little is known today. Over time, the building underwent some alterations but managed to preserve the essence of its original design, bearing witness to the architectural splendor of the era and aristocratic life in Portugal.

The Architecture

The aesthetic of Casa da Borralha is a rich fusion of styles. Neoclassicism predominates, visible in its symmetrical facade of three floors and five sections, where the ends and the central body culminate in triangular pediments. In the central panel, a coat of arms stands out, celebrating the crest of the founding family, a detail that underscores its noble origin and the property's historical connection. Revivalist elements are also observed, with Neo-Gothic and Neo-Medieval influences, lending the palace a singular and aristocratic personality. The main access is marked by a neoclassical gate which, upon crossing the wall, reveals the Leitão, Pinto, Caldeira, and Carvalho coat of arms. A grand staircase invites ascent towards a sophisticated portico, adorned with sculpted details.

The Surrounding Gardens

Enveloped by a vast and romantic garden, the palace offers a space of remarkable natural beauty. Here, various species of centuries-old and large trees provide shaded areas for contemplation. The ambiance is enriched by the presence of lakes and ornamental ponds, elements that, along with an artificial grotto, contribute to the serene and inviting atmosphere of the site. Various paths allow exploration of this carefully designed landscape, revealing unique nooks and perspectives on the building and its surroundings.

The Chapel and Interior Details

Attached to the palace is a Neo-Medieval style chapel, characterized by its ogival windows and a prismatic tower crowned by a spire. Although its current artistic contents do not correspond to the original, the chapel complements the architectural richness of the complex. Inside the palace, the grand staircase leading to the upper floors stands out with its baseboards featuring historicist figuration tiles, produced in 1905. The spacious halls, once the setting for gatherings and social events, boast high ceilings frequently decorated with frescoes and sumptuous chandeliers, recalling the luxury and sophistication of past eras. Quality wooden floors and traditional Portuguese tiles enrich the experience, allowing for an immersion in the history and aesthetics of aristocratic life.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt