Designed by architect Manuel Joaquim Norte Júnior Villa Sousa stands as a testament to a bygone era. It is also known as Palacete da Alameda das Linhas de Torres. This building is at Alameda das Linhas de Torres number 22 in Lumiar Lisbon. Banker José Carreira de Sousa commissioned its construction.
Construction on Villa Sousa began in 1910. It finished in 1911. The villa quickly gained recognition. It won the Prémio Valmor in 1912. The award recognized the building’s architectural quality in Lisbon.
The architectural style showcases modernist influences. It displays a harmony of proportions. Elegant stonework and arches add to its charm. The arches are a signature element of Norte Júnior’s work.
Over time Villa Sousa fell into disrepair. Today it exists as a ruin. Only the facade and some walls remain. It narrowly avoided demolition more than once.
In the 16th century the site was known as Campo 28 de Maio. Later it became Campo Grande. A public promenade was established there. It featured romantic gardens that lasted until the 19th century.
Until the 20th century the Alameda do Lumiar was considered outside the city. In 1911 it was renamed Alameda das Linhas de Torres. This name commemorates the Lines of Torres Vedras. These lines prevented the French army from advancing. They forced the army’s retreat from Portugal.
José Carreira de Sousa commissioned Norte Júnior to design the villa. Zacharias Gomes Lima was the civil constructor. The project was submitted in October 1910. The Palacete Villa Sousa features an elegant tower. Its stonework is elaborate. The arches and columns add to its appeal. The jury considered it the most beautiful house built in Lisbon in 1912.
Manuel Joaquim Norte Júnior designed several well-known buildings. These include Casa Malhoa and Café Nicola. His style combined eclecticism with geometric forms. He incorporated Art Nouveau elements.
Over the years Villa Sousa underwent changes. In 1920 José Carreira de Sousa built coach houses on the property. These were demolished in the 1960s due to their ruinous state.
In the 1970s José Maria Gonçalves and Joaquim Dias Pinho acquired Villa Sousa. Later SOLATU became the owner. The company expressed interest in developing the site. The building was neglected.
In 2010 photographer Brito Gastão e Silva documented the ruin. He described the garden as a very expensive vegetable garden. In the late 20th century the Fire Brigade warned about the building’s state. It was vacant and in ruins.
In 2004 Lisbon City Council considered taking administrative possession. This would enforce conservation work. The owners carried out some work. This included repairing the wall and replanting palm trees. The building never regained its former glory.
A new development project is underway. It includes housing and commerce. The Villa Sousa structure will be preserved. It will be integrated into a lot for tertiary use. The butterfly gate is a key feature to preserve. It is characteristic of Norte Júnior’s design.
As you stand before Villa Sousa consider its past. Imagine its vibrant gardens. Picture the elegant parties held within its walls. Though now a ruin it remains a symbol of Lisbon’s rich architectural heritage. The Palacete Villa Sousa is a reminder of the city’s layered history.