Arco da Cadeia House-Museum

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Leiria > Óbidos > Óbidos > Vila Muralhada

Location

The Arco da Cadeia House-Museum is situated in the heart of the walled village of Óbidos, one of its most characteristic historical constructions. It is strategically positioned inside the walls, serving as a pedestrian passage, with one of the main streets of the village running directly beneath its imposing arch.

Its central location allows for a natural integration into the village's discovery route, being a prominent element in Óbidos' medieval urban landscape.

An Arch with History

This unique building, erected between the 14th and 15th centuries, holds a multifaceted past. In the medieval period, the Arco da Cadeia House played essential roles in the governance and order of the village, having served as the Town Hall and, most likely, as Óbidos' old prison. This dual purpose underscores its political and administrative importance of yesteryear.

Over the centuries, its use has transformed. After ceasing to be the seat of the council in the 16th century, the property adapted to different realities, including its transformation into a private residence from the mid-20th century onwards.

Gothic Architectural Style

The architecture of the Arco da Cadeia House-Museum is a notable example of the Gothic civil style. Its structure, with two floors and a trapezoidal plan, stands out for the large ogival arch in stonework which, at ground level, functions as a corridor for passers-by. It is this distinctive feature that gives it part of its name and its visual identity.

On the upper floor, details such as a door with a straight lintel, above which there is a coat of arms with the Matos e Silva family crest, and two pointed arch twin windows, also in stonework, enrich its façade. Materials such as masonry and stonework, along with the wooden structure of the floors, are testaments to the original construction and its subsequent adaptations.

Space and Culture

Although its initial functions as town hall and prison have long been abandoned, the Arco da Cadeia House-Museum remains a place of interest for those visiting Óbidos. Currently, the building continues to serve the community and visitors, housing, in its lower area, the Municipal Tourist Office, a support point for exploring the village.

The upper floors have been converted into exhibition spaces, where local artists can display their works. This use gives the building a "house-museum" character, allowing visitors to experience the fusion between the rich history of the place and the vibrant contemporary cultural expression of Óbidos.

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