Castle House

Category: Civil Architecture > Manor House

District: Viana do Castelo > Arcos de Valdevez > Sistelo > Portela de Alvite

Location

Casa do Castelo stands in Portela de Alvite, a tranquil area of the picturesque village of Sistelo, in the municipality of Arcos de Valdevez. Imposingly, the building dominates the surrounding landscape, offering views of the natural beauty that characterizes this Minho region. Sistelo, its surrounding settlement, preserves traces of its ancient medieval configuration, with houses that reflect its history and tradition.

Architectural Style

Casa do Castelo is a notable example of revivalist architecture, built with a rectangular plan that stands out in the landscape. Its frontispiece is flanked by two robust towers, crowned with battlements, which give it the appearance of a fortification, despite being a palace. Complementing the complex is a Neo-Gothic style tomb, adding a unique element of remarkable artistic detail to the property.

Heritage and Origin

The construction of Casa do Castelo dates back to the second half of the 19th century and is intrinsically linked to the figure of Manuel A. Gonçalves Roque. A native of the parish, this prominent figure returned from Brazil and became the first Viscount of Sistelo. His initiative in building this house reflects a period of transformation and social assertion in the region, marking the local landscape with a structure of great historical and personal significance for its founder.

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