Bonjóia Farm

Category: Nature > Farm

District: Porto > Porto > Porto > Bonjóia

Location:

Quinta de Bonjóia is located in the eastern part of Porto city, in the parish of Campanhã. With a considerable area of about 40,000 square meters, the property benefits from naturally uneven terrain.

This configuration allows for broad perspectives, encompassing the nearest landscaped terraces, the Campanhã Valley, and the scenery composed by the Douro river, providing a unique landscape setting within its urban surroundings.

Historical Origins:

The history of Quinta de Bonjóia dates back centuries, having belonged to the Porto Cathedral Chapter. However, it was in the 18th century, more precisely in 1758, that the property was acquired by D. Lourenço de Amorim da Gama Lobo.

This nobleman decided to build a small palace here, with its construction beginning in 1759. Over the years, the estate passed through several private hands until it was acquired by the Porto City Council in 1995, marking a new phase in its history and use.

The Palacete and Its Architecture:

The central building of Quinta de Bonjóia is an 18th-century palacete (small palace), begun in 1759. Although its authorship is traditionally associated with Nicolau Nasoni, the architect of the Clérigos Tower, there is no complete historical certainty, and it may be the work of a disciple or collaborator.

Interestingly, the palacete was never fully completed, with the eastern wing remaining unbuilt. The main door, visible on Rua de Bonjóia, is notable for the coat of arms of D. Lourenço de Amorim da Gama Lobo. The building is particularly noteworthy for its south-facing facade, which includes an imposing quadrangular tower at one end and features windows and doors decorated with elements in the rocaille style, as well as a small, elaborate exterior staircase. The palacete is classified as a monument of public interest.

The Gardens and Nature:

Quinta de Bonjóia offers various outdoor spaces to explore. Next to the main entrance and the palacete, there is a formal garden, enriched by the presence of camellias, some of which are centuries old.

To the south of the palacete, the gardens develop in terraces, taking advantage of the terrain's unevenness to create distinct environments. The property also includes wooded areas and forest, creating a diverse environment that invites peaceful strolls and moments of contact with nature in a spacious urban setting.

A Space to Enjoy:

More than a historical and natural complex, Quinta de Bonjóia functions as a refuge in the city, offering a sense of tranquility and open space. It is an inviting place for relaxed strolls and for enjoying moments outdoors, whether for individual leisure or with family.

In addition to the possibility of exploring the built heritage and the gardens, the quinta hosts various public activities, becoming a meeting point and dynamic hub for the community and visitors seeking a serene place to spend some time.

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