Bandarra's House

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Guarda > Trancoso > Trancoso > São Pedro e Santa Maria

Location

Casa do Bandarra is located in the historic village of Trancoso, within the São Pedro and Santa Maria area. This location places it in the heart of an urban environment that preserves its essence. Around the House, the medieval streets and traditional architecture of Trancoso invite a peaceful exploration, allowing visitors to feel the unique atmosphere of this ancient Portuguese settlement.

The Figure of Gonçalo Anes

This space is entirely dedicated to Gonçalo Anes, known as Bandarra, one of the most enigmatic and influential Portuguese prophets of the 16th century. Born in Trancoso around 1500, Gonçalo Anes was a shoemaker by profession, but distinguished himself by his trovas, prophetic verses that became notable. His life ended in the middle of the same century, and he is buried in the Church of São Pedro, in Trancoso.

His work is marked by its messianic and Sebastianist character, announcing future events. The uniqueness of his thought and the depth of his predictions led the celebrated poet Fernando Pessoa to nickname him "the Portuguese Nostradamus". Bandarra's influence extended to figures such as Father António Vieira, perpetuating his legacy in Portuguese culture.

The Interpretive Centre

Casa do Bandarra offers its visitors an experience that goes beyond simple observation, establishing itself as a dynamic interpretive centre. The purpose is to preserve the memory of a central figure in Portuguese identity, through a journey that combines playful, educational, and scientific elements.

Inside, visitors will find various multimedia applications that reveal Bandarra's life and work. It is possible to watch a video about his journey, including the period of his imprisonment by the Inquisition in 1541, and a documentary that explores anthropological reminiscences linked to popular wisdom. The space also provides access to reproductions of archive documents and a reconstruction of his trial.

One of the most distinctive elements is found in the exterior courtyard, where, surprisingly, it is possible to hear Bandarra's trovas echoing from the bottom of a well, an auditory experience that deepens the connection with the prophet. The centre also includes oral testimonies from local inhabitants, who preserve in their memory the stories and legends associated with this character.

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