Monday, July 9, 2012

PALÁCIO DOS BISCAINHOS







Palácio dos Biscainhos, Braga (17th century).
This house is now a museum. It has been developed over the centuries, growing from northern Portuguese Baroque to more elegant "French" quarters, together with insect-painted walls.
The entry hall is almost medieval in its heavy and dark character, and sports four small statues that greet newcomers. Notice how the brackets which hold them actually develop from the pilasters between the arches, confusing their architectural roles. The floor is a tactile joy to walk on, like a field of petrified cushions. The gardens are wonderful, and will be featured later on.

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