Silveiras Manor or General Silveira's Family House

Category: Civil Architecture > Manor House

District: Vila Real > Peso da Régua > Peso da Régua > Poiares e Canelas

Location

The Solar dos Silveiras is located in the union of the parishes of Poiares and Canelas, integrated into the landscape of the municipality of Peso da Régua. This remarkable building is situated on an estate, traditionally dedicated to Port wine production, taking advantage of the steep slope of a hillside, establishing itself at the top of one of its terraces. The setting is distinctly rural, with the property delimited by high schist walls, which define the presence of the house within the village.

In front of the manor, there is a courtyard preceded by an imposing emblazoned portal, which serves as the entrance gate to the property. The house's rear facade opens onto the estate's terraces, arranged in a rounded shape and interconnected by staircases, fitting in with the traditional local dwellings.

Architecture and Heritage

Built between the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the Solar dos Silveiras is an example of late Baroque residential architecture. Its structure features a rectangular plan, with one or two-story facades that adapt to the unevenness of the terrain. Notable features include the Tuscan pilasters at the corners and the finishes with a double frieze and cornice.

The main facade, facing northwest, displays a portal surmounted by an elaborate pierced transom, accompanied by sill windows with a similar decorative scheme. On the side and rear facades, balconied windows can be observed on the noble floor, with their own ornamentation, which include slightly protruding triangular pediments, enhancing the elegance of the ensemble. The interior of the house features a centralized vestibule, rooms facing the main facade, and an adjacent chapel, although the building is currently unoccupied and privately owned.

The Legacy of General Silveira

This manor is known as the House of General Silveira's Family, in honor of Francisco da Silveira Pinto da Fonseca Teixeira (1763-1821), the 1st Count of Amarante. Born in Canelas, General Silveira was a military figure of great relevance in Portuguese history, distinguished by his actions during the French Invasions.

General Silveira was a nobleman with numerous decorations and titles, including that of Lieutenant-General of the Army and Governor of Arms of the province of Trás-os-Montes. His house reflects the importance and status of this family in the Douro region, being currently classified as a property of Municipal Interest, attesting to its historical and architectural value.

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