Gardens of the Mateus Palace

Category: Nature > Park

District: Vila Real > Vila Real > Vila Real > Bairro do Além

Location:

The Gardens of Mateus Palace are located in the parish of Mateus, approximately three kilometres from the city of Vila Real, in the municipality of the same name. This property is set within a predominantly rural environment, characterised by a surrounding landscape where agricultural areas, such as vineyards and orchards, stand out. Nearby, the village of Mateus, with its traditional buildings, contributes to the tranquil and authentic atmosphere of the region.

The Essence of Landscape Design:

This green space is renowned for its formal language, which reinterprets Baroque principles, influenced by French models. Although its most recent conception dates back to the mid-20th century, the garden design maintains a remarkable articulation with the palace's architecture, submitting to a central axis defined by the building's main façade. This careful integration creates a visual harmony between the built structure and the natural exuberance.

The Water Mirror and Perspective:

One of the most captivating features of the gardens is the expansive water mirror that stretches in front of the palace's main façade. Constructed in the 20th century, with a Neo-Baroque design, this lake was conceived to reflect the house's grandeur, imbuing it with a unique magnificence. Its surface, along with the surrounding tree cover, creates a surprising effect and accentuates the serenity of the entire landscape ensemble.

Geometric Beds and Paths:

The gardens unfold across gently sloping terraces, organised into various flowerbeds. Boxwoods, meticulously trimmed into complex geometric shapes, predominate here. One of the most unusual elements is a boxwood tunnel, which crosses one of the terraces and extends into the estate via a vine pergola, supported by obelisk-shaped posts, suggesting reminiscences of an older layout.

Environments and Notable Vegetation:

Beyond the formal spaces, the site surprises with the coexistence of more romantic and intimate environments. One can find a small water garden with varied tanks arranged at different levels, and beds with freer, more graceful ground-level boxwood designs. The presence of notable trees, such as an imposing Himalayan Cedar planted in the 19th century and dense masses of camellias and japonicas, offers shaded and cool areas, ideal for moments of contemplation.

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