Mendia Palace

Category: Civil Architecture > Palace

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Mercês

Location

Mendia Palace is located in the historic area of Mercês, in Lisbon, an area that preserves the essence of the capital's traditional streets and buildings. Its structure occupies a block defined by Rua das Parreiras, Travessa Arrochela, and Rua da Cruz dos Poiais.

This location, near the São Bento area, allows the building to integrate into the urban fabric of one of Lisbon's most characteristic neighborhoods. Its presence in a protected zone, as part of the Bairro Alto Special Protection Zone, highlights the importance of its historical and architectural context within the city.

Architecture and Evolution

This palace, with an 18th-century design and stately appearance, dates back to the 18th century and was, at one time, owned by the Counts of Mendia. Its initial appearance, marked by the style of the era, reflects the grandeur associated with noble residences.

In the early 20th century, the palace's interior underwent a significant intervention by architect Ventura Terra. Among the most notable alterations is the replacement of the original wooden staircase with a new one, built of stone, which stands out for its amplitude and nobility. Improvements were also made to the first-floor atriums, contributing to the enrichment of the architectural ensemble and the ambiance of the interior spaces.

Heritage Significance

Mendia Palace constitutes a relevant testament to the residential architecture of 18th-century Lisbon nobility. The transformations it underwent, carried out by Ventura Terra, illustrate the adaptation of historic buildings to the aesthetic and functional sensibilities of later eras, without distorting their original essence.

Its integration into the Bairro Alto Special Protection Zone underscores its value as an integral part of the city's classified heritage. The palace represents a sample of Lisbon's architectural and social evolution, maintaining its residential function over time.

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