Terreiro House

Category: Civil Architecture > House

District: Leiria > Leiria > Leiria > Bairro dos Sargentos

Location

Located in Leiria, in the area known as Bairro dos Sargentos, Casa do Terreiro occupies a space that once stood as a central point in the city's urban landscape. Its name refers to the 'terreiro' (courtyard/square) that formed in front of it, a relevant urbanistic element that became the epicenter and aggregating pole for other residences of prominent Leiria families, marking the social importance and status of the area.

A Manor House of Ancient Design

Casa do Terreiro stands out as Leiria's foremost 18th-century manor house, a remarkable example of the residential architecture of the Portuguese elite of the 18th century. Its structure and details reflect the taste and power of an era, offering a glimpse into the prestigious constructions that shaped the city over centuries. The building's robustness and elegance are testaments to its heritage value and its ability to withstand time, maintaining its grandeur.

Legacy of a Centuries-Old Family

This property is intrinsically linked to the history of the Silva Ataíde da Costa family, a lineage of great influence in Leiria. From the 15th to the 19th century, this family played a prominent social and economic role in the region, and the construction of Casa do Terreiro symbolizes the culmination of their prominence. This family's presence in the city is one of the oldest and most enduring, and the house is their most tangible legacy, narrating centuries of experiences, alliances, and the daily life of the local nobility.

Setting and Scenic Elements

Beyond its imposing architecture, Casa do Terreiro is complemented by elements that enrich its surroundings. A Renaissance-style garden, adorned with camellias, a fountain, and a tile panel, offers a setting of beauty and tranquility. The space also includes an orchard, where aromatic herbs thrive, and a lagar (wine/olive press), remnants of daily life and activities linked to the property. A chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Conception completes the ensemble, adding a spiritual and historical dimension to the site.

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