Category: Civil Architecture > Manor House
District: Faro > Silves > Alcantarilha > Alcantarilha e Pêra
The Solar dos Mascarenhas Marreiros Leite is located in the town of Alcantarilha, part of the municipality of Silves, in the Algarve region. The property is situated near the western entrance of the village, in a tranquil area that combines an urban environment with a discreet rural setting. Its proximity to National Road 125 facilitates access, positioning the manor as a link between the village center and more peripheral areas.
The surroundings of the manor are characterized by a serene atmosphere, typical of small Algarvian localities, with a landscape where agricultural areas and traditionally designed buildings predominate.
This manor, believed to have been originally built in the 15th century, belonged to the Mascarenhas family and underwent several alterations over the centuries, notably in the 17th century, when a second floor was added. The construction reflects the architectural evolution of a rural noble house, assuming significant importance in local history.
In 1791, the chapel integrated into the complex was consecrated by the Bishop of the Algarve, D. Francisco Gomes do Avelar, reinforcing the manor's connection to religious practices and the local community. The complex was officially recognized as a Monument of Public Interest in 2013, which further enhances its patrimonial value.
The main building features a formal facade, marked by symmetrical openings and elaborate frames on some windows. A prominent exterior staircase provides access to the first floor, as do balconies that give rhythm to the facade. The hip roofs, characteristic of the region, contribute to the manor's aesthetic harmony.
The interior of the chapel preserves geometric frescoes on its walls and a spherical cap-shaped dome, elements that convey the care and artistic style of its construction period. The complex also retains traces of its agricultural past, such as the well and the old olive oil mill, which were important for the region's economic development.
Beyond the manor, the complex includes an olive oil mill and a well, illustrating the estate's agricultural function over the centuries. The mill, among the few still operating in the Algarve at the end of the 18th century, testifies to the region's olive oil tradition, essential for the local economy.
In recent years, the space has undergone a requalification that allowed its adaptation for cultural uses, including spaces for exhibitions, art ateliers, and ceramic and sculpture workshops, maintaining an active link between heritage and contemporary art.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_da_Quinta_da_Cruz
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 37.131927777778,-8.3489
Coordinates DMS: 37°07'54.9"N 08°20'56.0"W
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