JUSTE-AURÉLE MEISSONIER NEVER WENT TO BRAGA

But his book probably did find its way there. André Soares was the likely "architect" of this wonderful monstrosity, a four-legged granite beast of a fountain canopy sitting in the park behind the Bom Jesus Sanctuary. The Sanctuary itself is a recognizable wonder of the Baroque vernacular (which will get several posts to itself here) but this piece is a one-off, a folly in the park too scary to be repeated.

BAHAMAS? NO, MARINHA GRANDE

The British Industrialist William Stephens established himself around Lisbon during the 18th century. He became known for producing glass, and brought to Marinha Grande, near Leiria, foreign skilled labor to work in his factory. He must have also brought an architect or two, as everything built is in the British Palladian style. The architectural compound encompasses his own house, offices and factory. As in the Bahamas across the ocean, the severity of the architecture is made smoother, infused with the local colors and vernacular details. It is sadly semi-abandoned, waiting for funding to turn it into a museum like so many projects in the country today, but the exterior is still charming and surprising.

ROMANTIC GARDEN

Near Palacio do Freixo, in Porto, we can visit one of the first romantic gardens in the city - the Quinta de Villar d'Allen, from the early 19t century. Although it's still in private property, the current owner, third generation from João d'Allen, will kindly open its doors to all visitors who are interested not only in seeing one of the most exotic gardens in Porto but also their world class camellia grove and nursery. In the photos above we can see the main facade with the french garden in front and a view from the garden, showing a flaming urn designed by the italian architect Nicolau Nasoni.

WOOD GRID PANELS

 

Casa de Mateus, Vila Real. 

"TÚNEL DE CEDROS"

 

"Túnel de Cedros" -  This amazing tunnel made of cedar trees is part of the the gardens of Casa de Mateus, in Vila Real. It was built  in the 1950's.

PERGOLA

Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art, Porto