Category: Civil Architecture > Palace
District: Évora > Évora > Évora > São Mamede, Sé, São Pedro e Santo Antão
The Palace of the Morgados da Mesquita, also known as the Mesquitas Palace, stands out with distinction in the heart of Évora's historic center. It is situated in one of the ancient parishes that form the city's most ancestral urban fabric, imbuing it with an atmosphere of profound historical resonance.
Its presence enriches the serene atmosphere of Évora's streets, where every architectural detail seems to narrate centuries of experiences. This palace harmoniously integrates into the city's landscape, classified as a World Heritage site, inviting contemplation of its legacy.
This remarkable building is a testament to the importance of the noble families who inhabited Évora over the centuries. Its construction and evolution predominantly span between the 16th and 18th centuries, reflecting the stylistic and functional transitions that shaped the manorial residences of the period.
The name "Morgados da Mesquita" derives from the Mesquita family, who instituted a 'morgadio', an ancient form of entailed estate, ensuring the perpetuation of their lineage and assets. The palace, in its essence, is a tangible record of Évora's aristocratic life and family traditions.
The facade of the Palace of the Morgados da Mesquita reveals a fusion of architectural influences that mirror the different eras of its construction. It is possible to identify detailed elements that evoke the Manueline style, particularly visible in its main portal, which stands out for its design and sculptural refinement.
Over time, elements reminiscent of the Baroque style were incorporated, giving it a more imposing and formal language. Its openings, mouldings, and, in particular, the family coat of arms on the front, are details that underscore the status and identity of its former owners.
The impressiveness of the Palace of the Morgados da Mesquita is not limited to its decorative details but extends to how it integrates into Évora's urban fabric. Its volume and the arrangement of its built sections give it a striking presence on the street where it is located.
As a tangible link to the past, the palace invites observers to imagine the daily life of the nobility and the historical events that unfolded within and around its walls over centuries, contributing significantly to the city's historical character.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palácio_dos_Morgados_da_Mesquita
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.57248596624212,-7.9129680378114315
Coordinates DMS: 38°34'20.9"N 07°54'46.7"W
Weather Évora
On-duty Pharmacy Évora
