House on Travessa da Misericórdia, No. 43

Category: Civil Architecture > House

District: Beja > Ferreira do Alentejo > Ferreira do Alentejo

Location:

The House on Travessa da Misericórdia, No. 43, stands on a quiet street in the center of Ferreira do Alentejo, surrounded by low-rise buildings that follow the town's architectural tradition. The house's alignment with the narrow street gives it an intimate setting, where facades succeed each other in harmony.

In the immediate vicinity, the Alentejo houses in light tones highlight the grandeur of this historic building. The urban environment maintains the region's rural character, with traditional cobblestone streets and occasional outdoor cafes that help convey the peaceful pace of the place.

Origin and historical context

Erected at the end of the 19th century, this house was commissioned by Commander José de Vilhena, a prominent figure in local society. The period coincided with a phase of agricultural and commercial prosperity in Ferreira do Alentejo, during which affluent families invested in prestigious residences.

The property reflects the ambition to assert family status through architecture, combining influences of Romanticism and Historicism that dominated European taste at the time. The building thus preserves the memory of a transformative era for the town.

Architecture and heraldic symbols

On the facade, Neo-Gothic and Neo-Renaissance elements stand out, notably in the pointed-arch windows and full-arch openings. The balanced symmetry and decorative inlays give it the appearance of a stately home, typical of Historicist trends.

It also features several coats of arms that honor the main families of the region, such as the Passanha, Fonseca, Lacerda, and Mendonça, as well as the Counts of Azambuja. The Vilhenas' initials appear prominently, recalling the marital alliances that consolidated the family's prestige in the town.

Aesthetics and atmosphere

The light-toned rendering, contrasted by the stonework, creates a play of light and shadow throughout the day. The ensemble results in a serene atmosphere, where every sculptural detail invites unhurried contemplation.

For photography enthusiasts, the facade offers various points of visual interest: the window frames, finials, and cornices delineate interesting compositions, especially under the soft light of late afternoon.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Casa_na_Travessa_da_Misericórdia,_nº_43

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