Malafaias Manor House

Category: Civil Architecture > Manor House

District: Viseu > São Pedro do Sul > Serrazes > Freixo

Location:

The Solar dos Malafaias is situated in the serene locality of Serrazes, an integral part of the municipality of São Pedro do Sul. Located in the Freixo area, this imposing building stands in a predominantly rural environment, nestled on a plain that, while not densely wooded, is dotted with cultivated lands and open fields.

Its position, slightly secluded and enveloped by some vegetation, invites careful observation, revealing a heritage that blends with the natural landscape and the tranquility of the region.

History and Family Contributions:

Also known as Casa das Quintãs, the construction of Solar dos Malafaias began in the mid-18th century. Its erection resulted from the decision of Joaquim Telles de Malafaya Freire d' Almeida Mascarenhas, a prominent figure of the time, who chose to establish his residence here. This move occurred after the family left their original solar in Santa Cruz da Trapa, due to the construction of a road that, in their view, would compromise the privacy of the previous location.

This solar is, therefore, a testament to the enduring presence and influence of the Malafaia family in this region, marking the journey of a lineage that chose Serrazes as its new family and social epicenter.

Architecture and Visual Details:

The Solar dos Malafaias stands out for its Baroque architecture, characterized by robust granite stone masonry. The main facade, facing east, features a segmental arch portal, above which a prominent coat of arms of the Malafaia family rises, crowned by a royal symbol attesting to their nobility.

Its windows are a particularly distinctive element, with their characteristic curvilinear frames, sometimes referred to as "apron windows," which give them a wavy and decorative appearance. Although there is no conclusive proof, the design of the solar is attributed to the celebrated architect Nicolau Nasoni, adding a possible touch of artistic mastery to the ensemble. The building also incorporates a chapel, an essential part of its original structure.

Historical Curiosity:

In addition to its remarkable architectural and historical value, the Solar dos Malafaias is linked to an episode that echoed throughout Portuguese society in the early 20th century: the "Serrazes crime." This tragic event, a crime of passion that occurred on July 22, 1917, involved the death of Dr. Augusto Telles de Malafaya, grandson of the solar's founder.

The incident generated great repercussion at the time, being widely discussed and even immortalized in a book, "Uma Causa Célebre (O Crime de Serrazes)" (A Famous Case (The Serrazes Crime)), authored by José Soares da Cunha e Costa. This narrative adds a layer of mystery and intrigue to the house's legacy, inviting those who observe it to reflect on past times and the singular destinies of its inhabitants.

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