Quinta do Castelo

Category: Nature > Park

District: Aveiro > Santa Maria da Feira > Santa Maria da Feira > Quinta do Castelo

Location

Quinta do Castelo is located in Santa Maria da Feira, tranquilly positioned on one of the slopes surrounding the emblematic Feira Castle. This place offers a serene environment, a true natural refuge, while simultaneously being integrated into the city's urban area. From various points on the estate, it is possible to glimpse the medieval towers and walls, integrating into the surrounding landscape. An avenue lined with robust trees marks the main entrance, leading visitors to the heart of this historic property.

From the viewpoint on the estate, the landscape widens, revealing views over the city. It is a walled space, providing an experience of discovery, with paths unfolding amidst dense and carefully maintained vegetation. Its unique location, close to the urban center but immersed in nature, gives it a distinctive character.

A Historical Heritage

The history of Quinta do Castelo dates back to ancient times, already existing during the years of the old County of Feira. Over the centuries, its ownership passed through various hands, including the Casa do Infantado after the end of the County in 1700. Later, in the late 19th century, the Brandão family became the owners, playing a crucial role in the enhancement of the space.

The recognition of its historical and landscape value culminated in its classification as a National Monument, a status it has held for over a century, since 1910. The most recent requalification, led by the Municipality of Santa Maria da Feira, allowed the estate to open its doors to the public on July 6, 2019, renewing its legacy and inviting discovery. Inside, the ruins of the old palace can still be observed, testimonies of past eras.

The Gardens of Romantic Inspiration

The beauty of Quinta do Castelo's gardens is largely due to the enhancement project implemented in the first decades of the 20th century. Inspired by the romantic gardens of Porto, the owners at the time, Alexandre Brandão and Angelina de Matos Brandão, commissioned Companhia Hortícola Agrícola Portuense to create this unique space.

The result is an exuberant plant landscape, punctuated by architectural and decorative elements that evoke romanticism. The artificial grotto, of rare beauty and with two floors, the serene lake with its ornate bridge, and the tables and benches imitating cork oak trunks and branches in reinforced concrete are some of the highlights. The famous Lover's Balcony, with its imposing stone pine whose inscriptions bear witness to vows of affection, is one of the most symbolic corners of the estate. It is a place where human ingenuity intertwines with the generosity of nature.

A Natural Refuge

Quinta do Castelo is a space of great natural beauty, characterized by its dense woodland and cool areas that invite strolls and contemplation. The paths wind through a diversity of trees, including centuries-old specimens such as plane trees, sequoias, beeches, cedars, cork oaks, and oaks. Also notable are species such as camellias, hazelnut trees, a giant thuja, and a Japanese maple, which contribute to the richness of the arboreal and shrub heritage.

The atmosphere is one of tranquility and silence, where one can appreciate the presence of discreet wildlife, such as ducks in the lake and squirrels in the trees. The presence of water, gently flowing down the slope, and the wooden angel sculptures, created by Paulo Neves, enrich the experience, making a visit to Quinta do Castelo a moment of connection with nature and relaxation amidst green splendor.

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