Category: Civil Architecture > Manor House
District: Viana do Castelo > Ponte de Lima > Calheiros > Paço
The Paço de Calheiros is located in the village of Calheiros, within the municipality of Ponte de Lima. It rises halfway up a slope, atop a hill covered with vineyards, in the area known as ‘Paço’. This privileged position offers a wide and remarkable perspective over the town of Ponte de Lima and the Lima river valley, providing a characteristic view of the Minho landscape.
The property benefits from its proximity to the Portuguese Way of Santiago, a route of great historical and cultural relevance for the region.
The Paço de Calheiros is one of the oldest and most representative examples of Portuguese civil architecture, with roots extending back to times prior to the very foundation of the nation. Since 1450, this house has remained in the possession of the same family, the Calheiros, a rare achievement that underscores its deep connection to the land and to the history of Minho.
The family's identity and coat of arms are intimately linked to the Jacobean cult, with the presence of scallops and staffs, symbols that refer to the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. Its classification as a Property of Public Interest since 1977 recognizes its importance as built heritage.
Considered one of the most significant 18th-century examples, the Paço de Calheiros features a rectangular and irregular plan, standing out for its two imposing facades, a peculiarity uncommon in the civil Baroque architecture of northern Portugal. The towers flanking the building, crowned by spheres, give it a striking presence and allude to architectural influences from previous centuries.
On the main facade, the chapel dedicated to Saint Benedict forms the central axis of the composition, with its valuable Baroque altar and an access staircase that divides into two flights. On the side facing the garden, the facade reveals a harmonious design, with a rhythm of windows and doors opening onto the surrounding landscape.
The Paço is surrounded by historic gardens dating from the 18th and 19th centuries, recognized by the Portuguese Historic Gardens Association. These green spaces, developed on different levels, are an example of the dedication and passion of several generations of the family for nature and landscape aesthetics.
Outside, a magnificent magnolia path leads to the entrance of the paço, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Elements such as a beautiful fountain and a fountain with a small granite tank complement the idyllic scenery of the gardens, which combine orchards and vineyards with ornamental plants.
The interior of Paço de Calheiros is an invitation to a journey through time, with a decor that highlights the elegance of carefully preserved antique furniture. The interior spaces, such as the noble hall and the reception rooms, are adorned with family portraits, impressive tear-drop chandeliers on the ceilings, and other decorative elements such as tapestries, books, antique china, and silver.
Each room reflects the history and daily life of the Calheiros family, allowing visitors a genuine perception of life in a Minho noble house throughout the centuries.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.806344,-8.566541
Coordinates DMS: 41°48'22.8"N 08°33'59.5"W
Weather Calheiros
On-duty Pharmacy Calheiros
