Ralph Village

Category: Civil Architecture > Manor House

District: Lisboa > Cascais > Estoril > Casa do Monte

Location

Situated in Monte Estoril, part of the locality of Estoril, Cascais, Vila Ralph stands in a prominent position. The residence is located in the Casa do Monte area and dominates the historical center of the locality.

Its urban surroundings, characterized by Avenida das Acácias, contribute to an appealing landscape, benefiting from a location that offers a privileged perspective over the coastline. This positioning gives it a remarkable scenic character.

The Architectural Vision

Designed in 1899 by architect Gaston Landeck, Vila Ralph features a design of great visual impact. The south-facing façade is particularly dynamic, with the lower floors forming a glazed gallery in a central body that projects forward and is faceted.

The architecture is distinguished by Art Nouveau style tile friezes, which are also repeated in the transition to the roof. On the third floor, a spacious terrace, delimited by a balustrade, provides an exceptional viewpoint, with views over the sea and the surrounding landscape.

The Azulejo Treasure

Vila Ralph is particularly renowned for the richness and quality of its azulejo heritage. On the façade, decorative panels by Jorge Colaço, a prominent name in Portuguese azulejo art, can be observed.

However, it is in the interior rooms that this art reaches its highest point, with an impressive quantity and diversity. Large narrative panels, with mythological or palatial themes, adorn the walls, including one depicting an English fleet on a stormy sea. These panels harmoniously interlink with Art Nouveau inspired vegetal friezes, creating a unique artistic composition.

A Historical Legacy

This residence was commissioned by James Gilman, who was the second owner of the well-known Sacavém Ceramics Factory. Its construction, at the end of the 19th century, marks one of the most important private achievements in Monte Estoril.

The importance of Vila Ralph has been formally recognized as a Monument of Municipal Interest since 1993, a testament to its historical and artistic value, particularly due to the exceptional collection of azulejos that distinguishes it.

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