Quinta do Viso

Category: Nature > Garden

District: Porto > Matosinhos > Senhora da Hora > Senhora da Penha

Location

Quinta do Viso, also known as Quinta de São Gens, stands in the locality of Senhora da Hora, in the municipality of Matosinhos. Located in a predominantly urban area, this property stands out for its isolated nature, delimited by a robust high granite wall. Its main access, marked by an imposing armorial gate, faces Rua do Senhor, at a corner with Estrada Exterior da Circunvalação, giving it a remarkable presence in the local urban landscape. The toponym "Viso" itself suggests an ancient watch function, indicating that this place was once an elevated observation point.

A Secular Legacy

The history of Quinta do Viso dates back centuries, with its origins linked to an entailed estate established in Ramalde before 1542. It is believed that the first major interventions, which significantly shaped its design, occurred between 1746 and 1758, with the probable contribution of the renowned Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni. The property underwent significant renovations after a fire in the early 20th century, when it was acquired by an emigrant who returned from Brazil. These interventions introduced new aesthetic perspectives, particularly in the extension of the house and the landscaping of the front courtyard, reflecting the tastes of the time. Since 1928, the quinta has been owned by the Portuguese State, currently serving as support for the activities of the Regional Directorate for Agriculture and Fisheries of the North.

Striking Architecture

The manor house of Quinta do Viso features rich and multifaceted architecture, combining Baroque, Revivalist, and Eclectic influences. Its design is characterized by a rectangular plan with a prominent quadrangular tower integrated into the center of the rear facade, giving it the appearance of a tower house. The facades, plastered and painted in a yellow hue, are embellished with granite stonework elements, such as quoins, friezes, and window frames. Neoromanesque details can be observed here in the merlons and the Lombard band of the tower, as well as full arches with pearled motifs. The blend of styles extends to Neorenaissance elements, such as the porches, and even Neomanueline ones in the window of the tower's second register, complemented by Neobaroque details, creating a visually complex and interesting ensemble.

Gardens of Noble Design

The gardens of Quinta do Viso are one of its greatest attractions, divided into two distinct areas: the courtyard preceding the main facade and the formal garden next to the rear facade. The latter, organized trapezoidally, stands out for its well-maintained lawns and pedestrian paths that frame a central fountain with a basin of concave and convex shapes. Around the fountain, four stone benches with pediment-shaped backs invite relaxation. The garden is further adorned by a remarkable collection of eight granite statues, four of which represent the seasons, and various fountains decorated with volutes and lion heads. These elements, particularly the entrance gate, the statues, and the fountains, are often attributed to the genius of Nicolau Nasoni, endowing the space with significant artistic and cultural value.

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