Category: Civil Architecture > Palace
District: Beja > Serpa > Serpa > Bairro Municipal
The Palace of the Counts of Ficalho, also known as Casa do Castelo (Castle House), is harmoniously integrated into the urban fabric of the historic city of Serpa, in the district of Beja. Its location is particularly relevant, as it is situated in an area that harks back to the oldest urban layout of the locality, near the imposing structure of Serpa Castle, which imbues the site with a profound connection to the medieval origins of the town.
Located in what is now known as the Bairro Municipal (Municipal Quarter), the palace enjoys a position that allows visitors to grasp Serpa's unique atmosphere, with its whitewashed houses and narrow streets. Its presence marks the urban landscape, highlighting the coexistence between noble architecture and the daily life of the Alentejo community.
This notable building is a testament to the long and influential presence of the Ficalho Counts' family in Serpa, a lineage that played a significant role in local and regional history. Its alternative name, "Casa do Castelo" (Castle House), suggests a probable connection to the existing fortifications, possibly resulting from the incorporation of older structures or its construction at a strategic point adjacent to the town's defense.
Over the centuries, the Palace served as the main residence for this prominent family, reflecting their social status and economic power. Every stone and every architectural feature of the building tells a part of its history, illustrating the transformations and adaptations that occurred over time, in response to the needs and tastes of the different generations who inhabited it.
The Palace of the Counts of Ficalho presents an imposing volume, with a facade that reveals its status as a noble residence. Although its appearance may have undergone alterations over the centuries, it retains elements that allow a glimpse of its original grandeur and the attention to detail typical of palatial constructions.
It is possible to observe peculiarities in its openings, in the arrangement of the windows, and in other decorative elements that underscore its importance. The building, as a whole, is an example of architecture that sought to combine the functionality of a residence with the need to represent the prestige and social position of its owners. By exploring its exterior, the observer is invited to imagine the interior spaces, courtyards, and rooms that once hosted the courtly and daily life of the Counts of Ficalho.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palácio_dos_Condes_de_Ficalho
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 37.944785,-7.5989032
Coordinates DMS: 37°56'41.2"N 07°35'56.1"W
Weather Serpa
On-duty Pharmacy Serpa
