House of Garrida

Category: Civil Architecture > House

District: Viana do Castelo > Ponte de Lima > Ponte de Lima > Arca e Ponte de Lima

Location

The Casa dos da Garrida is located in the center of Ponte de Lima village, more precisely on Rua Conde de Bertiandos. Situated in the parish of Arca e Ponte de Lima, its central location allows visitors to appreciate its integration into the historical urban fabric of the locality, naturally blending into the atmosphere of the Minho village.

A Window to the 18th Century

Built in the last quarter of the 18th century, the Casa dos da Garrida is a notable example of the noble residential architecture of the period, fitting the typology of the Rocaille Manor. This construction reflects the aesthetic and social trends of that period, offering a perspective on the lifestyle and taste of the wealthy families who inhabited the region.

Rocaille Details

The building features a two-story facade, marked by a frieze that separates them and by corner pilasters supporting a high cornice. The balcony windows, resting on modillions and featuring straight lintels, are a distinctive element. Above these, a set of sculptural elements, such as festoons, a cartouche, and a shell, enrich its decoration, highlighting the artistic refinement present in the work.

The Ornamental Chapel

A particular feature of the Casa dos da Garrida is its chapel. Although integrated into the manor's frontispiece, it appears as an independently treated architectural volume at one of its ends. The exterior of the chapel stands out for its rich and elaborate decoration, culminating in a bell tower that rises above the ensemble, lending it a remarkable scenic presence and significant historical value.

Continuity and Preservation

Currently, the Casa dos da Garrida houses a higher education center, maintaining its role as a place of activity and relevance for the village. This functional adaptation has allowed the building to be preserved and maintained in continuous use, ensuring that its architectural and historical value endures over time and is enjoyed by those who visit it.

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