Palace of the Correio-Mor

Category: Civil Architecture > Palace

District: Lisboa > Loures > Barro > Bairro de Santo António

Location

The Correio-Mor Palace is located in the village of Barro, which belongs to the municipality of Loures. Situated in the Santo António neighborhood, this location offers a peaceful setting, typical of an old rural property that has adapted to the surrounding urban growth. Its position allows for an observation of what remains of the landscape that once surrounded these grand noble estates, situating it in an area where history and modernity subtly meet.

The Legacy of the Correio-Mor

This remarkable palace, also known as Quinta do Correio-Mor, is a testament to the grandeur of Portuguese nobility in the 18th century. It was built by the family who held the important position of Correio-Mor of the Kingdom (Chief Postmaster), responsible for administering the crown's postal services. Its construction reflects the wealth and power of this lineage, which desired a residence befitting its status, whether for summer retreats or permanent residence. It is a building that directly transports us to a period of cultural and social effervescence in Portugal.

Architectural Style and Ambiance

The Correio-Mor Palace stands out for its Baroque and Rococo architecture, visible both in its imposing facade and its sumptuous interiors. Those who observe it can note the richness of the details, from the tile panels that adorn various rooms, to the mural paintings and the elaborate stucco ceilings. The halls and the private chapel, filled with period decorative elements, provide a deep insight into aristocratic life. The gardens that once surrounded the palace, with their characteristic geometric hedges, statues, and fountains, complemented the opulence of the residence, creating an atmosphere of serenity and beauty that can still be sensed today.

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