Square House or Malheiras Chapel House

Category: Civil Architecture > House

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

Location

Casa da Praça, also known as Casa da Capela das Malheiras, is located in the historic heart of Viana do Castelo. Situated at the junction of the parishes of Santa Maria Maior and Monserrate, its position marks the northern limit of the old medieval wall, in an area that once established itself as a new civic center of the city.

Architecture and Rococo Elegance

This imposing building represents a remarkable example of noble Rococo architecture in Viana do Castelo. Its main facade, facing west, displays a visual harmony with stone pilasters rising at the corners, and two distinct floors, separated by a frieze. The regularly arranged portals and windows enrich the composition, with special emphasis on the central axis of convex plan, which culminates in an elaborate family coat of arms, flanked by decorative elements and vases. The predominance of white on the facades contrasts with the robustness and detail of the granite stonework.

The Chapel: An Expression of Art

Annexed to the residential body, the chapel stands out for its ornamental richness, evoking the exuberant Rococo style and characteristics associated with the school of André Soares. Its facade is adorned with decorated pilasters and inverted shell elements, crowned by flames, culminating in a gable with scalloped and curvilinear lines, topped by a Latin cross. The concave portal and the large upper window are profusely worked with floral and shell motifs, including a cartouche bearing the word CHARITAS. This inscription refers to Saint Francis of Paola, to whom the chapel was dedicated, giving symbolic meaning to this space. It is known that inside, the chapel features a polychrome altarpiece, also in Rococo style, showcasing the artistic mastery of the era.

A Centenary History

The history of Casa da Praça dates back to the mid-18th century, when its construction was initiated by the Malheiro Reimão family. The chapel, built shortly thereafter, was an initiative of D. António Malheiro, then Bishop of Rio de Janeiro, who sent resources and cult objects from Brazil for its enrichment. Over the centuries, the house witnessed significant moments, including a 19th-century expansion that added a belvedere and a terrace, and the honor of having hosted prominent figures, such as King D. Carlos I, during his visit to Viana do Castelo in 1903. Casa da Praça is recognized as a Property of Public Interest, underscoring its importance in the city's architectural and historical heritage.

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