2012-01-25

Mateus Palace - Portugal


© Forways

It's the last postcard from the martinha's lottery. A great view of Mateus Palace in Vila Real.

"The reason to visit Vila Real, the capital of the province of Trás-os-Montes and birthplace of Diogo Cão (the explorer who discovered the Congo River in 1482), is for the Baroque Mateus Palace, 4km (2.5 miles) east of the town. Described by Sacheverell Sitwell as "the most fantastic country house in Portugal", it has been made famous worldwide for being featured on the label of Mateus Rosé wine and it is well worth a visit for a glimpse into the lives of the Portuguese aristocracy.

Built in 1745, it is considered a perfect example of baroque architecture, with an impressive façade made up of beautiful pinnacles on the roof and an ornate balustraded stairway, all reflecting on a pond in front of it.

Behind it is a delightful garden, among the most beautiful in Europe, with box hedges, statues, and a spectacular cedar tunnel about 35m (115ft) long." In: GoLisbon


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