Solar de Vilar

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Tourist Attraction

District: Viseu > Tondela > Aldeia

Location

Solar de Vilar is located in the peaceful Aldeia, a locality in the municipality of Tondela, in the Viseu region. Situated in a rural setting that reflects the natural beauty of Beira Alta, this Manor House is found in the heart of the village. Its position offers an environment of serenity and tranquility, allowing visitors to enjoy the surrounding landscape and, from certain points, catch sight of the elevations of the Serra do Caramulo in the distance.

The Historic Building

The imposing Solar de Vilar house is a construction with roots dating back to the mid-18th century. It represents a remarkable example of noble architecture of the era, characterized by its robust facade and the presence of an attached chapel, elements that were common in large Portuguese rural properties. Although it had undergone periods of degradation, the Manor House was the subject of a careful recovery process starting in 1999, which aimed to restore its original splendor and preserve its historical and cultural value.

The Reborn Gardens

The gardens of Solar de Vilar are one of its most enchanting aspects, the result of a post-1999 renovation that, however, respected its heritage. Next to the rear facade of the house, there is a courtyard with a large tank, adorned by two peculiar "bicas carrancas" (spouted gargoyles), original elements that give a unique touch to the space. This courtyard is beautified by orange trees and topiary trees shaped like umbrellas, inviting relaxation.

Wandering through the gardens, one discovers a path lined with cherry trees, culminating in a circular basin fountain, marked by two cypresses at its beginning. On the opposite side, an avenue of camellias, with some specimens notable for their age and beauty, is complemented by a pergola of rose bushes. This avenue leads to a formal garden, with clipped escalonia beds, whose design was inspired by the historic gardens of Quinta da Cruz, in Viseu, connecting the Solar to a family landscaping tradition.

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