Category: Civil Architecture > Museum
District: Vila Real > Alijó > Sanfins do Douro
The space dedicated to Father Manuel da Nóbrega is situated in Sanfins do Douro, a locality integrated into the municipality of Alijó, in the district of Vila Real. The location is set within the village context, offering a setting that reflects the essence of the Douro region.
Father Manuel da Nóbrega (1517-1570) was a central figure in the history of Portuguese Discoveries and the Society of Jesus. This Jesuit priest led the Order's first mission in Brazil, playing a crucial role in the founding of cities of great importance, such as São Paulo. His life was dedicated to the catechesis of native peoples and the defense of their rights, leaving behind a vast collection of writings that are today valuable historical documents about the beginning of Portuguese colonization in Brazil and the life of indigenous communities of the time.
In Sanfins do Douro, the "Padre Manuel da Nobrega" site presents itself as a museological space or interpretive center dedicated to the memory and work of this historical personality. The building has an L-shaped floor plan and two-story facades, constructed with granite masonry, a testament to local architecture. Elements in granite stonework and several commemorative plaques stand out on its portal. These plaques, some in marble and bronze, recall the importance of Father Manuel da Nóbrega, describing him as the "first Luso-Brazilian statesman" and an "immortal symbol of Lusitanian missionary genius", in addition to noting visits by important figures throughout the 20th century in his honor.
In the vicinity of the museum building, a monument stands in honor of Father Manuel da Nóbrega. This tribute includes a bronze head of the missionary, resting on a plinth, with the aim of perpetuating his memory and legacy. The inscriptions on the monument reiterate his role as the founder of the city of São Paulo and as a figure who dedicated his life and talent to Brazil, then an overseas province of Portugal.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.2932427,-7.5189194
Coordinates DMS: 41°17'35.7"N 07°31'8.1"W
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On-duty Pharmacy Sanfins do Douro
