Valflores Palace

Category: Civil Architecture > Palace

District: Lisboa > Loures > Santa Iria de Azoia > Alto da Eira

Location

Valflores Palace is located in the municipality of Loures, in the town of Santa Iria de Azoia, within the Alto da Eira area. Its design took advantage of the natural slope of the land, orienting it to the south. This position allowed its notable loggia to offer, in the past, a wide view over the riverside landscape of the Tagus River. Although the current surrounding scenery is more urban, with the presence of modern infrastructure, the palace's location maintains its original intention of openness and connection with its surroundings.

A Singular Testimony to the Renaissance

This palace is a remarkable and rare example of 16th-century civil architecture in Portugal. Its construction, with strong Italian Renaissance influences, stands out as a avant-garde project for its time. It was commissioned by Jorge de Barros, an important factor for D. João III in Flanders, who brought with him a European vision and a particular artistic taste that are reflected in the originality of this property, making it a unique heritage in the Lisbon region.

Architectural Elements and Curious Details

Valflores Palace was designed to be developed on two main floors, masterfully adapting to the hillside. The upper floor housed the residential area, where a large central hall, which once featured a ceiling with Mudéjar influences, played a prominent role. One of its most emblematic elements is undoubtedly the south-facing loggia, which originally opened with a series of arches. Adjacent to the palace, there is also a small private chapel with a vaulted structure. It is interesting to note that the palace is popularly known as the "Pumpkin Palace," a name that comes from the old custom of using its balconies to dry these vegetables.

A History of Resilience and Recovery

The history of Valflores Palace is marked by various phases of use and, in particular, by its resilience. After centuries of occupation as a noble residence, the building was progressively adapted for agricultural purposes in the 19th century, leading to a marked degradation, with its lower floors serving as rural support spaces. In 1982, the palace and the estate were classified as Property of Public Interest, recognizing their heritage value. After being acquired by the Municipality of Loures in 2006 and included, in 2015, on a European list of endangered monuments, Valflores Palace has undergone intense and crucial structural recovery and conservation work. This concerted effort aims to safeguard its integrity, ensuring that this valuable heritage is preserved for future generations.

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