Thunder Palace

Category: Civil Architecture > Palace

District: Braga > Braga > Braga > São José de São Lázaro

Location

The Raio Palace is located in the city of Braga, within the São José de São Lázaro area, on a street that the palace itself helped to shape. Its central position on Rua do Raio places it in an urban environment with other surrounding historical buildings, such as the old São Marcos Hospital and the Fountain of the Idol, contributing to the cultural richness of this area of the city.

A facade that tells a story

This unique building, also known as Casa do Mexicano (House of the Mexican), stands out in the Braga landscape due to its imposing facade. Built in the mid-18th century, commissioned by a wealthy merchant, its design is attributed to architect André Soares, a central figure of Northern Baroque. The facade displays a profusion of decorative elements in worked granite and wrought iron, characteristic of the Joanine Baroque style with rocaille features. Later, in the 19th century, the blue and white tiles that now cover the facade were added, giving it a distinctive look that immediately catches the eye.

From noble residence to Interpretive Center

Originally a private residence, the palace was acquired in 1853 by Miguel José Raio, Viscount of São Lázaro, who immortalized it with his name. The building's history is also deeply linked to the Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Braga (Holy House of Mercy of Braga), owner of the property since the late 19th century, which installed healthcare services there. Following extensive rehabilitation completed in 2015, the Raio Palace opened its doors as the Interpretive Center of the Memories of the Misericórdia of Braga, assuming a new prominent role in the city.

The interior and the legacy of the Misericórdia

Upon entering the palace, visitors are invited on a journey through various rooms, which now house the memories and extensive collection of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Braga. It is possible to appreciate the richness of the interior architecture, particularly the grand staircase, with its tile panels, mural painting, and the famous "Turk", an imposing sculpture attributed to André Soares. The Interpretive Center showcases the institution's history, its social role throughout the centuries, and aspects of local culture and traditions, including religious heritage and the evolution of healthcare in the region, with objects and documents that allow for a profound understanding of its legacy.

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