“These cobalt blue tiles whisper tales” I began my tour. Welcome to Casa do Galvão a hidden gem in Lisbon. This is no ordinary house. It stands proudly at Calçada do Galvão numbers 23 to 27. Casa do Galvão boasts a rich history. It’s a testament to Lisbon’s architectural heritage. The building itself is captivating. Its irregular shape is divided into three sections. Each has a unique roofline. The lower floor is partially underground. This cleverly uses the natural slope of the land. The main entrance is impressive. You enter through a courtyard. The courtyard is protected by a wall. Within the wall is an arched gateway. The gateway is made of limestone. Iron gates add to its charm.
The main facade is simple and elegant. A stone staircase leads to the grand entrance. This entrance directly accesses the main floor. Flanking the door are charming window. The windows are framed with curved limestone. Forged iron graces their windows. Stepping inside you are welcomed into a world of refined taste. The dining room is a highlight. It’s completely covered in monochrome blue tiles. These are cobalt blue on a white background. The tiles feature beautiful floral patterns. The ceilings are made from beautiful wood.
The entrance hall displays three polychrome tile panels. These date from the third quarter of the 18th century. Their design includes figurative compositions. They add a stunning pop of color. These panels weren’t always here. The current owner acquired them separately. The tiles are said to have originated from the Quinta dos Inglesinhos. This adds to their unique charm. The tile work in the dining room is also captivating. The albarradas tiles feature flower vases. They’re flanked by cherubic figures. The figures hold cornucopias filled with flowers. These features create a delightful playful effect. The original tiles have been carefully restored. Gaps were filled with 20th-century tiles. These new tiles were chosen to flawlessly match the originals.
Casa do Galvão’s story goes beyond its stunning architecture. It started as a country house. King José I gifted the land in 1758. The recipient was António José Galvão. He was an important official. In 1863 Eduardo Augusto Pedrosa bought the property. He oversaw major renovations. The house has served many purposes. It was later divided into smaller dwellings. The Lowndes Marques family played a vital role. In 1985 they began a significant restoration. Casa do Galvão stands as a symbol of Lisbon’s resilience. It’s a testament to the city’s enduring spirit. Today it’s a reminder of the past. It is a beautiful place to appreciate Lisbon’s history and architecture. A truly remarkable residence. And that’s the story of Casa do Galvão.