For wine tasting, glorious architecture, local culture, traditional tile art … really, we could on … there’s the Palacio Anadia in Portugal. For those sailing the Douro through Portugal and Spain, this is an ideal shore excursion choice. What is it? Where is it? Read on …
What is the Palacio Anadia?
Originally the Palace of Mangualde, the palace came to be known as the Palace of Anadia (or Palace of the Counts) at the beginning of the 19th century after the marriage of - this is a mouthful - Manuel Paes de Sá do Amaral de Almeida e Vasconcelos Quifel Barbarino, Lord of the House of Paes do Amaral, to D. Maria Luiza de Sá Pereira de Menezes de Melo Sotomayor, 3rd Countess of Anadia. (Don’t worry, there won’t be a quiz when you visit.)
What can I see at the Palacio Anadia?
Step back in time at the palace, where you’ll learn of the daily life of the counts and countesses who lived here. Explore the palace, its garden, the neighboring forest for insight into the traditions, tastes, and fashions of the time. Those with an eye for architecture will appreciate the palace’s Baroque style emblematic of 18th-century Portugal, noticing especially the elegant windows, arched cornices, shell motifs, pilasters, balconies, and porticos that define the palace facade.
Inside, you’ll find the impressive coat of arms of the Paes do Amaral family, a majestic staircase, and an exquisite coffered ceiling. It’s the intricate panels of blue and white tiles throughout the rooms, on the ceiling, and along the staircase that is particularly noteworthy and reflective of the palace’s storied history. Look, too, for art by Pellegrini, Giagenti and Lanzarotto.
Did you say wine tasting?
We certainly did. The Palace of Anadia contains 10 hectares of vineyards set with a fully walled farm of 50 hectares, a historical agricultural garden, and a barrel cellar. We can arrange for a tour of the grounds, after which you’ll visit Adega de Barricas and taste two palace wines in the old wine cellar of The Manor House.
How do I get there?
The easiest way to ensure a visit to the Palace of the Counts is to embark on a Douro River cruise. You’ll experience two iconic cities along the way, Lisbon and Madrid, with their Old World architecture and rich history. Sail through the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with rambling vineyards clinging to rugged cliffs. Explore the ancient walled city of Toledo and golden-hued Salamanca.
Douro River cruises are known for their immersive shore excursions, and we can work together to ensure you won’t miss the unique opportunity to spend time (and taste remarkable wine) at The Palace of the Counts. Just promise, once you’re there enjoying one of the most stunning examples of 17th-century manorial architecture in Portugal, be sure to raise a glass of wine to us!