Prince Pedro's Palace

Category: Civil Architecture > Palace

District: Coimbra > Montemor-o-Velho > Tentúgal

Location

The Paço do Infante Dom Pedro is located in the town of Tentúgal, part of the municipality of Montemor-o-Velho. Situated on a small hill south of the village, the complex stands out amidst cultivated fields and dense vegetation.

From this point, it is possible to enjoy a wide view over the landscape of the Mondego fields. The property, which includes the main house, a chapel, and a barn, is preceded by a spacious courtyard and is located in front of the Vala Real, at the end of a central thoroughfare.

A Royal and Noble Heritage

The history of the Paço do Infante Dom Pedro dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries. This site was donated by D. João I to his son, Infante D. Pedro, in 1413. Later, already with the title of Duke of Coimbra, the Infante obtained jurisdiction over Tentúgal, and it is believed that he was the driving force behind the construction of the chapel that is part of the Paço.

Throughout the centuries, the property was associated with important figures and families, such as the House of Cadaval, whose heraldic remains can still be observed. The Paço witnessed significant events, such as the 1834 fire, which significantly altered its structure, but it maintains its relevance as a Monument of Public Interest.

Architectural Features

The Paço do Infante Dom Pedro reveals a fusion of styles, exhibiting characteristics of late Gothic and Renaissance. The main facade is marked by protruding sections and imposing chimneys that stand out in the landscape.

The openings, with broken arches, are a distinctive feature of its Gothic origin. On the ground floor, the arches and arcades that define the courtyard, as well as the covered balcony on the south facade, are supported by white marble columns with decorated capitals. The foliage motifs on these capitals denote an artistic influence that may have come from Andalusia.

Chapel and Barn

Within the Paço complex, the chapel, under the invocation of Saint Michael, deserves particular attention. With its high walls and pitched gables, it represents one of the first examples of a late-Gothic cycle in the region. Its main portal is remarkably similar to that of the Mother Church of Tentúgal, with a circular oculus crowning the entrance.

The old barn, built at the end of the 16th century, contrasts with the Gothic style of the Paço due to its Renaissance approach. It features a classical portal and an unusual interior for an agricultural building of that era, divided into three naves, with plain Doric columns joined by round arches.

The Current Environment

Currently, the Paço do Infante Dom Pedro is vacant, which gives it an atmosphere of tranquility and reflection on its long history. Although the property is used for some agricultural activities, such as vineyards, and its dependencies occasionally serve as shelter for livestock, visitors can still observe the features that tell the story of this ancient manor.

The experience of visiting the Paço allows a direct connection with Tentúgal's noble past, offering a glimpse into its architectural characteristics and historical importance, even in its current state.

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