Category: Civil Architecture > House
District: Vila Real > Alijó > Sanfins do Douro > Sítio do Nóbrega
Located in the serene village of Sanfins do Douro, Alijó municipality, the House where Father Manuel da Nóbrega was born is part of the Sítio do Nóbrega, an urban area of the village. Its proximity to the Parish Church gives it a central position within the village's layout, making it an easily accessible and visible landmark.
This modest residence is the birthplace of one of the most significant figures in Luso-Brazilian history: Father Manuel da Nóbrega, born here on October 18, 1517. Trained in canon law at the prestigious universities of Salamanca and Coimbra, Nóbrega dedicated his life to the Society of Jesus. He was the main driving force behind the first Jesuit mission in Brazil, arriving in Bahia in 1549. His legacy is immense, notably including the founding of the city of São Paulo in 1554 and the establishment of several colleges in Brazilian territory, profoundly marking evangelization and colonial organization. He is recognized as the first Luso-Brazilian statesman, an enduring symbol of the missionary spirit.
The house exhibits a simple residential architecture, with an "L" shaped plan and two two-story facades. Its solid structure is made of granite masonry, with plastered and painted walls, contrasting with the granite stonework elements that adorn the window and door frames and the staircase. One of its most distinctive features is the crenellated main portal, which lends a touch of distinction to the ensemble, complemented by iron railings and a tiled roof that characterize the region's traditional construction.
Upon approaching the house, visitors will find several commemorative plaques on the crenellated portal, perpetuating the memory of Father Manuel da Nóbrega and his profound connection with Brazil. These inscriptions not only mark his birth date but also describe him as the "first Luso-Brazilian statesman" and an "immortal symbol of Lusitanian missionary genius". They also bear witness to the visits of important Brazilian figures and historians who, at various times in the 20th century, paid tribute to this illustrious native of Sanfins, reinforcing the historical ties between Portugal and Brazil. Outside, in the vicinity of the house, a commemorative monument complements this tribute, displaying a bronze bust of Father Manuel da Nóbrega and detailed inscriptions that celebrate his life, his dedication to Brazil, and his fundamental role in the founding of the city of São Paulo.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.2952959,-7.5161229
Coordinates DMS: 41°17'43.1"N 07°30'58.0"W
Weather Sanfins do Douro
On-duty Pharmacy Sanfins do Douro
