House of Recarei or Quinta do Alão (gardens and sculptural elements attributed to Nicolau Nasoni)

Category: Civil Architecture > House

District: Porto > Matosinhos > Guifões > Mainça

Location

Located in the municipality of Matosinhos, in the locality of Guifões, more precisely in the Mainça area, this property is situated in the Porto district.

Its position in a suburban context, yet still bearing traces of an old rurality, offers an environment that conciliates proximity to the city with the tranquility of a historic estate, providing a refuge of heritage character.

The Property and Its History

Casa de Recarei, also known as Quinta do Alão, represents a significant example of the region's civil architectural heritage. Although specific records about its foundation may be scarce, its existence as an estate dates back to periods when such properties played a central role in the social and economic life of local communities.

The estate's relevance is considerably heightened by the attribution of elements of its gardens and sculptures to the renowned Italian architect and artist Nicolau Nasoni, an unavoidable figure of Northern Baroque.

Nicolau Nasoni's Legacy in the Gardens

The presence of Nicolau Nasoni, one of the most influential creators of the Baroque in northern Portugal, bestows exceptional artistic and cultural value upon Quinta do Alão. While full authorship may be a matter of attribution rather than documentary confirmation for all details, the sculptural elements and the design of the gardens strongly suggest his mastery and the Baroque aesthetic that so characterized his work.

One would expect to find a planning that prioritizes symmetry, grandeur, and the integration of artistic elements with the natural landscape, as observed in other works attributed to this master. Fountains, statues, and flowerbeds may reflect the vision of an artist who knew how to harmonize architecture with nature, contributing to the scenic and contemplative atmosphere of the space.

Architecture of the Residence

The main structure of Casa de Recarei is a notable example of a stately residence, typical of its era. The building, set within the context of a recreation and production estate, reflects the grandeur and status of its former owners.

Architectural details are observed that align with the civil style of the time, combining functionality with an aesthetic aimed at imposing grandeur. The architectural and landscape ensemble forms a harmonious whole that mirrors the way of life and art of past centuries, inviting close observation of its unique features.

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