Viscount of Valdemouro Palace

Category: Military Architecture > Castle

District: Aveiro > Vagos > Vagos > Vagos e Santo António

Location

The Visconde de Valdemouro Palacete is located in the town of Vagos, integrated into its urban fabric. Its position is remarkable for overlooking the Canal do Rio Boco, which gives it a unique view over the water and the surroundings. The building plays a central role in the town's fabric, contributing to its identity and urban landscape.

A Notable History

Built in the last third of the 19th century, this palacete was initially the residence of the Visconde de Valdemouro, a name that still designates the building today. Its history took a new turn in 1925, when the building was acquired by the municipality. After this transition, the palacete adapted to public functions, having served, for example, as the headquarters of the town's primary schools, marking the lives of several generations of Vagos inhabitants.

Architectural Features

The architecture of the Visconde de Valdemouro Palacete stands out for its strong Moorish inspiration, visible in various details. It is possible to observe, for example, that the doors and windows culminate in horseshoe arches, a shape that is repeated in the pediments of the main facade. In these same pediments, there are quartered coats of arms, heraldic elements representing the lineages of the Rodrigues, Francos, Pessoas, and Matos families. Access to the first floor is via an imposing exterior staircase, which develops elaborately up to a small entrance gallery.

A Cultural Future

Currently, the Visconde de Valdemouro Palacete is undergoing a rehabilitation and expansion project. This intervention aims to transform the building into a hub for creative industries and for the promotion of artistic and cultural awareness in the municipality. Its rehabilitation is part of a broader urban regeneration plan for Vagos, seeking to revitalize the town centre and reinforce its image and identity. Upon completion of the works, the palacete will feature an auditorium, among other spaces dedicated to culture and art.

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