Category: Culture and Entertainment > Tourist Attraction
District: Viana do Castelo > Caminha > Caminha > Terreiro
Casa dos Pitas, also known as Casa Pita, is located in the Terreiro area, right in the heart of Caminha village, in the municipality of the same name. The building is situated next to the village's central square, giving it a distinct urban presence. Despite its central location and direct access to the main square through its facade, the rear of the property reveals a more reserved and peaceful environment, characterized by extensive gardens and courtyards.
Casa dos Pitas is a remarkable example of a noble house, whose construction dates back to the 17th century, specifically between the years 1649 and 1652. This imposing building was erected on properties that belonged to the ancient entailed estate of the Pitas. One of the most distinctive aspects of Casa dos Pitas is the fact that it has remained in the possession of the same family since its construction, for over 350 years, which gives it a unique historical and cultural value. Its recognition as an integral part of Portuguese heritage led to its classification as a Property of Public Interest in 1977.
The urban palatial house stands out for its architecture, which combines elements of the late Manueline revivalist style with Baroque details. Its facade, in particular, presents an unusual model for its construction period in the 17th century, anticipating trends that would only later develop in places like Lisbon. The windows of the front facade display elegant canopied arches, a rare type of design, comparable, in its relevance, to the portal of the Convent of Jesus in Setúbal. The frontispiece is crowned by chamfered merlons and half-round gargoyles, and bears coats of arms that reinforce its noble lineage.
Later, in the 19th century, a four-story rectangular lookout tower was added to the west side of the building, reminiscent of the typology of ancient medieval keeps. In the details of the coats of arms and, especially, on the rear facade and in the garden's fountain, it is possible to observe the influence of the Baroque style that intertwines with the Manueline design.
Inside Casa dos Pitas, in spaces that were once part of the private area, there is a small chapel built in the 18th century. This chapel houses a carved altarpiece and an image of Our Lady of Sorrows. Along with the rich stucco work that adorns some of the house's rooms, these elements are representative of the Neoclassical style. At the rear, a spacious courtyard, built in 1652, reveals a serene environment, embellished by a fountain and a water mirror, which contribute to the tranquil and historic atmosphere of the place.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.875412577778, -8.8380556333333
Coordinates DMS: 41°52'31.5"N 08°50'17.0"W
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