Fidalgo Manor

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Guarda > Almeida > Castelo Mendo

Location

Located in the historic village of Castelo Mendo, in the municipality of Almeida, Solar do Fidalgo asserts itself within the local urban fabric. This large building occupies a considerable area of a city block, standing out due to its prominence in the village centre. Its main facade, which opens onto Largo Dr. Pedro de Castro, gives it a striking presence in the public space. The silhouette of the manor is unmistakable, with its mirador tower protruding from the village's profile, visible from various points, which accentuates its importance within Castelo Mendo's landscape and architectural ensemble.

Architecture and Features

Built mostly between the 17th and 18th centuries, Solar do Fidalgo is a remarkable example of a noble house that harmonises Mannerist and Baroque influences, with later Classicist touches. Its architecture is distinguished by its rectangular plan and horizontal development, lending it a particular decorative sobriety. The main facade is symmetrically punctuated by windows and two depressed arch portals: one lateral and the central portal. The latter is flanked by fluted pilasters and topped by a family coat of arms, which attests to its noble past.

On the south side elevation, one of the most captivating elements is the loggia, an open gallery composed of four semicircular arches, supported by pilasters, and preceded by an elegant continuous balcony. At the top of the building, the quadrangular mirador tower rises imposingly, offering a vertical perspective that complements the manor's horizontal profile and asserts itself as a visual landmark in Castelo Mendo's landscape.

Historical Memories

Solar do Fidalgo, also known as Casa do Fidalgo (House of the Nobleman), is deeply connected to the region's history. Its construction is attributed to the influential Quevedo family, later passing into the possession of the Saraiva family, a prominent name in the local nobility. Throughout the centuries, the manor witnessed and participated in significant events.

One of the most unique and verifiable episodes in its history dates back to 1844. During the military uprisings of the time, Solar do Fidalgo played an unexpected role. Its facilities were adapted to serve as a military hospital on the noble floor, while the spacious warehouse areas on the ground floor functioned as a prison. This fact illustrates the versatility and strategic importance the building assumed beyond its original residential function.

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