Category: Civil Architecture > Manor House
District: Leiria > Ansião > Santiago da Guarda > Matos de Cima
Situated in Matos de Cima, in the heart of the peaceful village of Santiago da Guarda, this remarkable architectural complex is located within the municipality of Ansião. Its central position in the village makes it a visible landmark for those exploring this region, offering a glimpse into historical architecture within a rural setting.
Known by various names throughout the centuries, such as Solar dos Condes de Castelo Melhor or Paço dos Vasconcelos, this stately residence is a testament to history spanning several centuries. Its main edifice dates back to the second half of the 15th century, although its robust tower is considered even older. Its historical and architectural importance was consolidated with its classification as a National Monument in 1978, ensuring the preservation of this heritage for future generations.
This complex is a rare example of Manueline architecture in the region, distinguishing itself by its integrated composition of tower, palace, and chapel. The tower, with a quadrangular plan and built of stone masonry, exhibits more defensive elements, such as merlons and broken arch windows. The palace, by contrast, reveals a concern for symmetry and residential functionality, organized into four wings that develop around a central courtyard, reflecting an architectural modernity for its time.
The interior of the palace, designed on a single floor, was characterized by the clarity of its volumes and the rigorous symmetry of its spaces, with spacious interconnected rooms and fireplaces that provided heating. However, the most surprising discoveries emerged during recent restoration works: valuable Roman mosaics were found in the subsoil, testifying to the millennial occupation of this site. Part of these findings has been preserved and is accessible for viewing, allowing for a fascinating journey through time.
The chapel, quadrangular in plan and attached to the noble wing, is a distinct element of the complex, with its interior adorned by a ribbed vault. The decorative details, of geometric and vegetal inspiration, and the coat of arms on one of the vault's keystones, underscore the nobility and history of the families who resided here. In the past, the lands surrounding the residence were converted into vegetable gardens and orchards, with an essentially recreational purpose, contributing to the refined atmosphere and leisure of stately life on the property.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.948035676923, -8.4803404076923
Coordinates DMS: 39°56'52.9"N 08°28'49.2"W
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