Solar of the Viscount of Almeidinha or Solar of the Viscount of Alqueidão or Solar of Our Lady of the Snows

Category: Civil Architecture > Manor House

District: Aveiro > Ílhavo > Ílhavo > Bairro dos Pescadores

Building History

The Solar do Visconde de Almeidinha dates back to the 16th century, having been initially built by Estevão Dias Amaral. Over the centuries, it underwent several modifications and expansions carried out by the Amaral family.

Architecture

The building features notable architectural elements, such as the entrance with two simple pilasters and a broken pediment. The chapel, built in 1590 and rebuilt in 1746, where a gravestone is located, also stands out. The windows have a small apron and a shell at the top. The rear part has a spacious covered and recessed balcony with granite columns.

Tile Panels

Inside the house, it is possible to admire 18th-century tile panels, which are still preserved.

Estate and Gardens

The Solar do Visconde de Almeidinha is situated on a vast estate that occupies a large part of the village. Quinta do Espírito Santo, located on the property, is undergoing restoration, including the expansion and renovation of the centenary olive grove. The Buchos gardens and the camellia garden, both classified and with beautiful landscaping, are also noteworthy.

Recent Restoration

Between 2013 and 2015, the Solar de Almeidinha underwent restoration works, preserving its original architectural line. The old Agricultural Spaces and Annexes were rehabilitated, such as the stables, the wine press, the woodshed, the granaries, among others.

Agricultural Activity

The estate maintains agricultural activity, with emphasis on the olive grove and the planting of various species of fruit trees. The olive oil brand "Solar de Almeidinha" has been registered.

Notable Features

In Quinta do Espírito Santo, it is possible to find a "casa de fresco" (ice house) and a large fountain, formerly covered with 18th-century tiles. The "fonte dos cavalos" (horses' fountain), dating from the 16th century, is also noteworthy.

Sources: http://www.solardealmeidinha.pt/historia

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