Quinta de Villar d'Allen

Category: Civil Architecture > Farm

District: Porto > Gondomar > Fonte Pedrinha > Gondomar (São Cosme), Valbom e Jovim

Location

Quinta de Villar d'Allen is located in Fonte Pedrinha, in the municipality of Gondomar, in an area marking the transition between the municipalities of Porto and Gondomar. Situated on uneven terrain, the property enjoys an environment of greater privacy and serenity, which distinguishes it even while being close to more urbanized areas. Its position allows it to feel like a tree-lined refuge.

History and Family Heritage

This remarkable quinta began to be built in 1839 on the initiative of John Allen, an influential British Port Wine merchant and art collector. His intention was to create a summer residence, a refuge for the warm months, away from the hustle and bustle of Porto. Over the years, the property was expanded and enriched, largely due to the vision of his son, Alfredo Allen, the first Viscount of Vilar d'Allen, who played a significant role in its current configuration and the development of its gardens. A panel visible at the main gate commemorates the house's foundation by its first owners, João Allen and D. Leonor Amsinck Allen, in 1839.

Eclectic Architecture

The house at Quinta de Villar d'Allen features a style that blends neoclassical and eclectic influences. It stands out for its elongated rectangular plan, with a central body slightly higher than the two side bodies. The unique nature of the terrain led the rear facade to gain an additional floor, adapting to the natural slope. An interesting contrast is observed between the facades: the main one, facing east, incorporates Neo-Gothic inspired elements, visible in the octagonal turrets and the parapets that crown the building. The west facade, on the other hand, displays a more distinctly neoclassical language, clad with elegant slate slabs. Inside the house, the attention to detail is notable, such as the elaborate stucco ceilings in the living room or library, adorned with figures and scenes of classical inspiration, which reveal the sophistication of the era.

The Romantic Gardens

The gardens of Quinta de Villar d'Allen are one of its most striking features, designed in a romantic style by the German landscape architect Emile David. They are an invitation to stroll and contemplate, with a diversity of elements that create a scenic environment. Serene lakes, fountains, and spouts accentuate the presence of water, alongside waterfalls, bridges, and paths that invite exploration. The space is embellished by a vast collection of plants and flowers, with particular emphasis on the camellias, some of which are rare and historical varieties, some even named after the Allen family. There are also sculptural elements attributed to Nicolau Nasoni, which enrich the garden's pathway and lend an artistic touch to the natural environment.

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