Passal House or Dr. Aristides de Sousa Mendes' House

Category: Civil Architecture > House

District: Viseu > Carregal do Sal > Cabanas de Viriato

Location

Casa do Passal is located in the tranquil village of Cabanas de Viriato, part of the municipality of Carregal do Sal. Situated on the former Quinta de São Cristóvão estate, the residence is set in an environment that invites reflection, characteristic of the more secluded villages in central Portugal. Its presence in the village is a reference point for understanding a significant chapter of history.

The Residence and its Architecture

Built during the 19th century, Casa do Passal, also known as Vila de São Cristóvão, was a family residence that marked Aristides de Sousa Mendes' childhood. In the 1920s, the building underwent expansion and reconstruction, adapting to the needs of a large family and serving primarily as a holiday retreat. Its distinctive architecture, with French influences, is visible in its three floors, long window openings, and the mansard roof, which is made of schist. Above the balcony, the stone with the family's coat of arms stands out, a detail that adds a touch of distinction to the ensemble.

The Legacy of a Man

This place is indelibly linked to the figure of Aristides de Sousa Mendes, the Portuguese diplomat who became a symbol of humanity and courage. It was his childhood home and a space for family gatherings, but it is his heroic action during World War II that makes it a central point of interest. Defying prevailing orders, Aristides de Sousa Mendes issued thousands of visas in Bordeaux, allowing war refugees, including many Jews, to enter Portugal, saving them from a tragic fate. This act of conscience, as it became known, reflects a deep commitment to human dignity.

A Space of Memory

Recognized as a National Monument since 2011, Casa do Passal was rehabilitated to become a museum, inaugurated in July 2024. The main objective of this space is to preserve and disseminate the history and the Act of Conscience of Aristides de Sousa Mendes. A visit to the house allows for an immersion into the diplomat's life and a deeper understanding of the historical context that led to his altruistic action, offering a unique perspective on Portugal's role in World War II and on the values of freedom and solidarity.

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