Category: Civil Architecture > Museum
District: Vila Real > Vila Real > Mateus > Bairro do Além
The Mateus House Foundation Museum is located in the village of Mateus, in a quiet area integrated into the Bairro do Além, in the municipality of Vila Real. It is a short distance from the city center of Vila Real, nestled in surroundings that reflect the beauty of the Trás-os-Montes landscape.
This place is renowned for its imposing architecture, a notable and representative example of the Baroque style in Northern Portugal. The project is traditionally associated with the Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni. Particularly striking are the decorative stone elements adorning the roofs, known as pinnacles, and the harmony and balance present in all facades of the main building. It is considered one of the most characteristic works of its time in Europe and is classified as a National Monument.
Upon visiting the interior of the house, one can explore various rooms that hold memories of centuries of history and the lives of twelve generations of the same family who inhabited it. The collections on display include a wide range of objects, such as furniture spanning the 17th to 20th centuries, carpets, tableware, garments, and other valuable pieces that tell the story of the house. The library is a space of particular interest, housing approximately 6000 volumes, notably featuring a celebrated illustrated edition of Luís de Camões' "Os Lusíadas," published in 1816.
The beauty of the main building is complemented by its meticulously maintained and extensive historic gardens. These outdoor spaces invite a serene stroll, showcasing remarkable botanical diversity and a landscape design that dialogues with the house's architecture. Particularly noteworthy are the rose beds, which add an explosion of color and aroma, especially on the south wing. The gardens are an essential part of the experience and the scenic beauty of the complex.
In addition to the main house and gardens, the complex includes a Chapel and a Winery. The Winery, whose origins date back to the 16th century, remains fully operational. This connection to the region's wine production adds an extra dimension to understanding the history and function of this place over time.
The Mateus House Foundation, the entity that manages this heritage, ensures that the site is more than just a museum. It is an active cultural center that continuously promotes events in the fields of music, plastic arts, literature, and cultural debate. Utilizing the various spaces of the House and its annexes, the foundation hosts initiatives that keep the site vibrant and relevant in the contemporary cultural landscape.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.2973841,-7.7134381
Coordinates DMS: 41°17'50.6"N 07°42'48.4"W
Weather Mateus
On-duty Pharmacy Mateus
