Solar dos Mesquita

Category: Civil Architecture > Manor House

District: Portalegre > Elvas > Elvas

Location

The Solar dos Mesquita is located in the city of Elvas, within the Rui de Mello neighborhood. This historic building is strategically positioned inside the walls that define the city, a central element of its identity. The manor forms a corner building, opening its main facade to Largo do Dr. Santa Clara, a square with a peculiar atmosphere. This location allows visitors to Elvas to observe its integration into the fortified urban fabric, with the manor being adjacent to the Arco do Dr. Santa Clara to the north.

Architecture of a Noble House

This manor is a notable example of 18th-century stately residential architecture. Its robust and imposing structure reflects the style of dwellings built for the prominent families of the time. Also known as Casa Brasonada (Coated House), the Solar dos Mesquita displays the characteristics of a noble residence, including elements that could indicate the lineage of the original family. Its presence contributes significantly to the city's architectural ensemble, demonstrating the richness of Elvas's built heritage.

Family and Historical Legacy

The history of the Solar dos Mesquita is deeply rooted in the social life of Elvas. Its construction in the 18th century by the Mesquita family marked the beginning of a long period as the residence of generations of this prominent lineage. Later, in the 19th century, the property was acquired by Dr. João Francisco de Abreu Santa Clara Barbas, a figure whose name gave its name to the square where the manor is located. This succession of owners illustrates the building's continued importance in the city's social and historical panorama, maintaining its residential function to this day.

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