Category: Nature > Garden
District: Leiria > Bombarral > Carvalhal
The Quinta dos Loridos is a historic and landscaped property located in the West region of Portugal. It is known for its extensive thematic garden and its connection to wine production, in an environment that combines history, art, and nature.
The Quinta dos Loridos is located in the town of Carvalhal, part of the municipality of Bombarral. It is situated in an area that shares its name, the urbanization or zone of Quinta dos Loridos, in surroundings characterized by the region's rural landscape. Its position benefits from a tranquil environment and easy access within the context of Carvalhal.
The property's history dates back to a land donation in the 15th century. In the 16th century, the estate became associated with a family of Italian bankers established in Portugal, the Affaitati, who built a country house here. In the 18th century, under the ownership of the Sanches de Baena family, the estate underwent significant alterations that gave it a more Baroque appearance, particularly in the main entrance and the chapel. This family's coat of arms can still be seen today. Over the centuries, the estate passed through different owners, who contributed to its evolution and preservation.
The Manor House of Quinta dos Loridos is an example of 18th-century noble rural architecture, incorporating the Baroque elements introduced at the time. The property's oldest layout, dating back to the 16th century and revealing Italian influences, is still visible in aspects such as the terraced gardens and a portal reminiscent of "Palladian" architecture. These characteristics allow for observation of the estate's architectural and landscaping evolution over time.
One of the most prominent elements at Quinta dos Loridos is its vast thematic garden, a space created as a tribute to the cultural heritage lost with the destruction of the ancient Buddha statues in Bamiyan. The garden spans about 35 hectares and is an environment designed for tranquility and contemplation. It includes an artificial lake inhabited by carp and is filled with sculptures of oriental and African inspiration, made from materials such as terracotta, marble, and granite.
In this garden, you can find a giant Buddha statue, 20 meters high and made of bronze, representing the Shakyamuni Buddha. Another notable collection is a replica of the Chinese Terracotta Soldiers, which evokes the army discovered in Xi'an. There is also an African Sculpture Garden, featuring works that symbolize the diversity and cultural richness of various regions of Africa. The garden is complemented by pagodas, bridges, and fountains, creating a visual and symbolic pathway that invites discovery and serenity.
In addition to the historical structures and the thematic garden, Quinta dos Loridos maintains elements of the region's natural landscape. The property includes extensive vineyard areas, an activity that historically forms part of the estate's identity. Within its grounds, cork oaks and oak trees are also found. The thematic garden itself is a significant green space, hosting a variety of plants, such as different bamboo species, Japanese cherry trees (sakuras), and orchids, contributing to the diversity of local flora and serving as a habitat for the region's fauna, including various birds and insects.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.2764601,-9.1396198
Coordinates DMS: 39°16'35.3"N 09°08'22.6"W
Weather Carvalhal
On-duty Pharmacy Carvalhal
