Giela Manor

Category: Civil Architecture > Manor House / Stately Mansion

District: Viana do Castelo > Arcos de Valdevez > Giela > Lugar do Paço

Location

Paço de Giela is located in Lugar do Paço, in the locality of Giela, municipality of Arcos de Valdevez. It stands on a small elevation on the left bank of the River Vez, about one kilometer from the town. This position offers a wide and serene view over the surrounding landscape and the river valley, providing an environment of tranquility and direct contact with the Minho nature.

A Historical and Architectural Legacy

Classified as a National Monument since 1910, Paço de Giela is a remarkable example of private civil architecture, spanning the medieval and modern periods. The site where the Paço is located has an even older history, with vestiges of a refuge structure dating from before the 11th century.

The current configuration of the Paço is the result of several construction phases. Its imposing central tower, a distinctive element, was likely built at the beginning of the 14th century. Later, in the early 16th century, the residential wing was added, characterized by Manueline-style windows and a fortified entrance, which attest to the evolution and importance of the property over time. The Paço was linked to relevant historical figures, having been the object of royal donations by D. João I, underlining its role in regional and national history.

Interpretive and Panoramic Route

After careful rehabilitation work, Paço de Giela is now open for visits, welcoming visitors to a space that once served as housing for the caretakers and has been adapted for visitor reception. The old Chapel of Santa Apolónia, from the 16th century, has also been restored and is part of this historical complex.

Inside the tower, there is an interpretive route distributed over three floors. Each level explores a specific theme: the archaeology of the municipality of Arcos de Valdevez, the history of the Paço itself and its evolution, and the significant Recontro de Valdevez (Encounter of Valdevez), a crucial event for the formation of Portugal, which occurred in 1141. At the top of the keep, it is possible to access the old wall-walk, from where one can enjoy a breathtaking panorama over the ancient Land of Valdevez and the picturesque valley of the River Vez.

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