Tower Manor House of D. Duarte Street (former Cadeia Street)

Category: Civil Architecture > Tower

District: Viseu > Viseu > Viseu > Bairro Dona Maria do Céu Mendes

Location

The Paço da Torre stands in the heart of the city of Viseu, in the Dona Maria do Céu Mendes Neighborhood, on one of its oldest arteries, the current D. Duarte Street, formerly known as Chain Street. Its striking presence, located on a street that maintains a certain traditional layout, gives it an urban setting that evokes the history of the place.

Legacy and Origin

This remarkable building, classified as a National Monument since 1910, has its roots firmly planted in the late 14th century. Its construction was driven by the Countess D. Isabel, natural daughter of King D. Fernando I and Lady of Viseu. A tradition, although not fully confirmed by historical records, suggests that this place may have been the birthplace of King D. Duarte in 1391. Over the centuries, the Paço da Torre saw its ownership transfer, passing from Infante D. Henrique to the Cathedral Chapter and, subsequently, to the influential Abreu family in the 15th century, who made significant alterations and contributed to its identity.

Architecture and Striking Details

The Paço da Torre presents itself as a fascinating example of medieval residential architecture, with the particularity of incorporating decorative elements of the Manueline style. Its structure stands out for its rectangular plan and pronounced verticality, characteristic of medieval towers, culminating in a gable roof. The facade, carefully crafted in stonework, reveals three distinct floors. On the middle floor, a beautiful geminated window stands out, biparted by a cylindrical colonette. This window is a true point of interest, notable for its frame decorated with Manueline motifs, such as twisted cables, polycentric arches, and rich vegetal decoration. Above this window, the coat of arms of the Abreu and Soares de Albergaria family is visible, testifying to the period when the D. Pedro Gomes de Abreu family promoted important renovation works in the Palace. On the upper floor, two guillotine windows with polylobed forms complete the building's aesthetic, lending it a unique distinction.

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