Gominhães Palace

Category: Civil Architecture > Manor House / Stately Mansion

District: Braga > Vizela > Caldas de Vizela

Location

In Caldas de Vizela, in the municipality of Vizela, the Paço de Gominhães is located in a rural and tranquil environment. It stands on a slight elevation of land, inserted in the valley landscape that characterizes the surroundings of the town. Access is via a private path that leads to an imposing coat of arms portal, which marks the entrance to the Paço's courtyard, inviting an experience of discovery of the site.

Historical Heritage

This manor house has medieval roots, possibly dating back to the 13th century and the reign of D. Sancho I. Throughout the centuries, the Paço de Gominhães was the stage for important moments and figures in Portuguese history, having been associated with D. Dinis and Queen Saint Isabel. Its connection to the legendary “Twelve of England” and the knight Magriço is also noteworthy, one of the branches of the Vasconcelos family, whose arms are present, conferring upon the Paço a legacy that resonates in the verses of Os Lusíadas. Classified as a Property of Public Interest, it was once known as the Honra de Gominhães.

Architectural Features

Built mainly between the 17th and 18th centuries, the Paço de Gominhães exhibits an interesting fusion of Mannerist and Baroque styles. The main building, with a U-shaped plan, stands out for its grand two-flight granite staircase, which leads to the main facade, and for the presence of a tower that, following the model of the tower-house, is today integrated into one of the wings. Of note is the isolated chapel, erected in 1691 by Pedro Vaz Cirne de Sousa, as attested by the inscription on its portal. Complementing the complex are two granite fountains: one monumental in character with a carranca spout and a wall with a small bell tower, and another, more discreet, embedded in the wall next to the house portal. Its interiors still preserve the beauty of traditional wooden plank ceilings.

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