Dare to imagine lords and scientists residing within these walls? That’s the Palácio dos Condes da Lousã for you. This palace whispers tales of noble families and scientific curiosity. Let’s delve into its story.
The Palácio dos Condes da Lousã was built in the 18th century. It stands in the parish of Águas Livres. Back then the building dominated a vast territory. It was part of the village of Damaia. Today a 1960s urbanization surrounds it.
Notice the pink plaster and stone pilasters. They mark it as a typical Lisbon country house. The Palácio dos Condes da Lousã even had its own chapel. It was dedicated to Our Lady of the Conception.
Take a closer look at the many roofs. The azulejo tile panels also stand out. These are key features of the building.
In 1813 only caretakers lived here. Later in the 20th century, Padre Himalaya made this place his home. He was a famous inventor. Padre Himalaya whose real name was Manuel António Gomes lived here in the first decade of the 20th century.
The Câmara Municipal da Amadora acquired the property in 2003. Their goal was to preserve it. The Quinta dos Condes da Lousã was classified as a Property of Public Interest. This happened on December 24, 2012.
The main façade faces north. It has three sections divided by stonework. The central section stands out a bit. It is also a story higher than the other parts. The ground floor has three identical archways. These are framed in simple stonework. They mark the main door and two windows.
Inside a rectangular vestibule leads to a similarly shaped room. The interior is organized around the facades. Social spaces face the side and rear. A garden with terraces lies behind the building.
The Quinta dos Condes da Lousã belonged to the Counts of Coculim in the early 18th century. Around 1740-1750 the allegorical azulejo panels were added. By 1863 it belonged to the Counts of Lousã. In the 19th century the chapel was a site of pilgrimage on the day of its patron saint.
So the Palácio dos Condes da Lousã stands as a reminder of past grandeur. It also represents scientific innovation. It is a piece of Lisbon’s history preserved for future generations.