Quinta do Carmo (Vidigueira)

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Beja > Vidigueira > Vidigueira > Melroeira

Location

Located in the Melroeira area, on the outskirts of the village of Vidigueira, this remarkable building stands out in the surrounding landscape. Its imposing presence, marked by its dark facade and framed by large trees, gives it a unique and easily identifiable appearance for those approaching the locality.

Historical and Architectural Legacy

The place now known as Quinta do Carmo dates back to the old Convent of Our Lady of Relics. Founded by the Carmelite Order, its current name reflects this historical connection. After the abolition of religious orders in 1834, the convent ceased to have its original functions, later being adapted for residential use. Its robust architecture and the dark hue of the building give it a striking presence, testament to a conventual past. Currently, the old convent is adapted as a private residence and is generally not open to the public for visits.

The Link to Vasco da Gama

Quinta do Carmo holds a significant role in Portuguese history, given its deep connection to Vasco da Gama, the celebrated navigator. For about three hundred and fifty years, his remains were deposited in the church of this convent, before being transferred to the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon in the 19th century. The relocation of the remains was an episode marked by strong controversy at the time. Vidigueira was also the village that conferred upon Vasco da Gama the title of Count of Vidigueira, granted by D. Manuel I in 1519, after the navigator acquired the lands of Vidigueira and Vila de Frades.

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