Large House with Covered Veranda

Category: Civil Architecture > House

District: Guarda > Almeida > Castelo Mendo, Ade, Monteperobolso e Mesquitela > Castelo Mendo

Location

Situated in the heart of the historic village of Castelo Mendo, the Casa Grande with Covered Porch is located in Largo do Pelourinho, one of the most characteristic points of the settlement. Occupying a prominent position at the corner with Rua Direita, this building stands out for its unique presence within the perimeter of the ancient walls, marking the urban landscape of the village.

Architectural Features

This two-story building, with an ‘L’-shaped floor plan, is an example of residential architecture that, over the centuries, combined popular roots with punctual Renaissance influences and 19th-century elements. Its construction is predominantly in granite, visible in the stonework that shapes its openings and in some of its walls, while other areas are plastered, giving it a diverse texture.

History in Every Stone

It is believed that the main body of the house was built in the 16th century, a period recognizable by elements such as the chamfered openings and a particular door with an ogee arch. Between the late 16th and early 17th centuries, the building was enriched with the distinctive covered porch that characterizes it today. Later, between 1800 and 1801, inscriptions at the base of the porch suggest a significant expansion of the space with the addition of a lateral wing. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, the Casa Grande adapted to the community's needs, serving as a primary school and Post Office, and currently also houses the local Parish Council, maintaining its relevance in the daily life of the village.

The Imposing Porch

The most visible element of the Casa Grande is, without a doubt, its covered porch. Strategically placed at an angle on the main facade, this porch features a parapet with elaborate moldings. It rests on robust consoles adorned with volute motifs, above which rise six Tuscan columns, supporting the porch structure. Three doors open to this outdoor area, one of which is notable for its straight lintel that integrates a delicate ogee arch, an architectural detail of great interest.

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