Pazo de Cea, 16th-century manor house in Grolos, Spain
Pazo de Cea is a 16th-century manor house with an L-shaped layout built from granite stone, featuring a gallery with balustrades and arches plus a striking entrance displaying three coats of arms. The building sits on expansive grounds that include various structures and planted gardens.
An abbot from Nigrán parish named Joan de Cea established this country house in the late 16th century as a retreat. Bernardo de Cea later carried out extensive renovations in 1813 that fundamentally altered the building's exterior and internal structure.
The estate displays traditional Galician architecture mixed with Portuguese influences, visible in its chapel, dovecote, and heraldic fountain spread across the grounds. These elements shape the appearance and reflect the cultural ties of the region.
The property now operates as a hospitality venue with a Michelin-starred restaurant and offers spaces for events alongside guided tours of the grounds. Visitors can explore the estate and enjoy dining, though checking opening times beforehand is advisable.
The grounds feature multiple gardens and lead to a modern pavilion positioned between a century-old Araucaria tree and a camellia garden. This unexpected mix of classical architecture and contemporary design makes the visit particularly memorable.
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