Casa da Prelada, 18th century mansion in Ramalde, Portugal
Casa da Prelada is an 18th-century mansion in Ramalde featuring three connected structures with granite detailing and stone embellishments carved into its facades. The property extends across landscaped grounds that include formal garden areas, water features, and collections of flowering plants and trees.
Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni designed the property in 1754 for a prominent local family, though the work was never fully completed at that time. Subsequent centuries saw additions and modifications that shaped its current form and character.
The house now serves as a cultural venue hosting book readings, film showings, and other artistic events that draw people from the neighborhood. These gatherings have transformed it into a living space where the community engages with history and contemporary culture.
The property and its gardens are open to visitors without charge, making it accessible for casual exploration. The grounds follow the original layout, so visitors should be prepared for uneven surfaces and sloped terrain.
The gardens contain one of the largest boxwood labyrinths found anywhere on the Iberian Peninsula, a feature that sets it apart from other historic estates. Visitors also encounter unusual plants like Japanese camellias, which reveal a surprising botanical dimension.
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