Rossio House

Category: Civil Architecture > House

District: Viseu > Viseu > Viseu > Bairro da Balsa

Location

Casa do Rossio is situated in the heart of Viseu, in the Balsa neighborhood, a vibrant urban area of the city. The building is prominently positioned facing the iconic Rossio, also known as Praça da República, one of Viseu's central and busiest points. Its location at a confluence of main thoroughfares grants it remarkable visibility within Viseu's urban fabric.

Historical and Cultural Value

Classified as a Property of Municipal Interest, Casa do Rossio carries a rich history, marked by owners of great relevance in the political and cultural life of the country and the city. Built in the late 19th century, this residence served as home to illustrious figures, such as Counselor Dr. José Maria de Sousa de Macedo and, later, General Dr. José Victorino de Sousa e Albuquerque, the last civil governor of Viseu during the Monarchy. The house was also linked to the memory of Counselor Dr. Afonso de Melo, who introduced some of the reforms that shaped its current configuration. It was the stage for important political and cultural gatherings, reflecting the social and intellectual life of the era. Despite undergoing several internal transformations over the years, the building preserves its original facade and the echo of a past where Viseu's history was made.

Architectural Style

The exterior of Casa do Rossio is a remarkable example of the eclectic architectural style characteristic of the late 19th century. The main facade, symmetrical and imposing, rises in two distinct floors, separated by a double cornice. Its central body, in stonework, stands out for the monumentality of its openings, with a portal on the ground floor flanked by windows, and three French windows on the upper floor, which enhance its elegance. The dormer windows at the top, with their predominantly circular openings, contrast harmoniously with the sobriety of the lower floors. Elements such as the elaborate metal grilles protecting the windows and the tile panels beneath them enrich the composition, inviting a careful look at the decorative details that define its distinctive style.

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