House of Sá Sotomaior

Category: Civil Architecture > Palace

District: Viana do Castelo > Viana do Castelo > Viana do Castelo > Santa Maria Maior e Monserrate

Location

The Sá Sotomaior House is located in the city of Viana do Castelo, in Praça da República, one of its most recognized and central urban spaces. Its main facade, facing east, opens directly onto this vibrant square, flanked by buildings of similar proportion that together create a characteristic ambiance of the historic center. The house's position in the square allows for a direct observation of its architecture, making it a prominent feature in the surroundings.

A Family and Historical Legacy

This remarkable building, constructed in the mid-16th century, was built by Rui de Sá Sotomaior, a descendant of an ancient family with roots in Foz do Lima. The house served as the stately residence of this lineage for centuries, witnessing significant transformations over time. In the 19th century, it underwent alterations, including the demolition of a tower to expand its spaces. Throughout its history, it also served as the headquarters for various local associations, such as the Assembleia Vianense and Sport Clube Vianense, and even hosted King D. Manuel II in 1908. Although its interior has been completely adapted to its current functions, retaining only the original entrance with its staircase, the facade continues to tell the story of its nobility and permanence.

Architectural Details

The Sá Sotomaior House stands out for its 16th-century architecture, which falls within the proto-classicist style, already announcing the regularity and symmetry of the Renaissance. The main facade, constructed of plastered and painted granite, features a stone plinth and is topped by a parapet with decorated merlons, which lend a stately appearance. The rectangular windows and doors are carefully framed by pilasters, capitals, and cornices. On the second floor, a frieze and cornice unifying the upper openings are visible, adorned with decorative elements such as jars or pinnacles. A coat of arms bearing the arms of Sá Sotomaior, Morais, and Soutomaior adorns the facade, emphasizing its noble lineage and its historical-symbolic value.

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