Category: Civil Architecture > House
District: Braga > Vila Verde > Vila de Prado
Situated in the heart of the charming Vila de Prado, Casa da Botica is nestled in the serene Lugar de São Sebastião. This location provides it with an atmosphere of tranquility, integrated into an urban fabric that still preserves the essence of the old settlements of Minho, with its streets and nooks that invite the discovery of a unique built heritage.
The place, with its picturesque atmosphere, offers a glimpse into the region's traditional life, framed by the characteristic landscape of the municipality of Vila Verde, in the district of Braga, where the built environment harmonizes with the surrounding natural setting, namely its proximity to the Cávado River, which shapes the village's landscape.
Casa da Botica stands out as a representative example of the architecture that characterized the towns and villages of northern Portugal in past eras. Its designation, "Botica" (apothecary), evokes the memory of a time when these houses were not merely residences, but often also housed important trades and essential services for the local community, such as old pharmacies or apothecaries, places for preparing and selling medicines and ointments.
The building's structure is marked by the robustness of granite, a material abundant in the region and widely used in traditional construction. Its architectural features reflect a functional simplicity combined with an aesthetic typical of the era, with details that, although discreet, underline the character and historical importance of the property. One observes the constructive typology common for residences of some significance, revealing a deep connection to local techniques and materials.
Casa da Botica in Lugar de São Sebastião represents a valuable testament to the social and economic development of Vila de Prado. Its presence recalls the old establishments that, in one way or another, served the daily needs of the population, functioning as vital centers of commerce and social interaction.
As an integral part of the locality's built heritage, this property contributes to the cultural and historical richness of the region. Preserving Casa da Botica means keeping alive the history of its inhabitants, their trades, and the way of life that shaped the identity of Vila de Prado throughout the centuries, allowing visitors an immersion into the collective memory of Minho.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.5976131457396,-8.465800072396263
Coordinates DMS: 41°35'51.4"N 08°27'56.9"W
Weather Vila de Prado
On-duty Pharmacy Vila de Prado
