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Cruz Alba
Melides, Alentejo, Portugal
Cruz Alba
Melides, Alentejo, Portugal
Architect Manuel Aires Mateus Creates a Striking Homage to Classic Medieval Estates in Melides
Completed in 2014, this striking home was conceived and designed by architect Manuel Aires Mateus in stunning contrast to the steep and scenic topography of the Alentejo region's Serra de Grandola valley. Situated near the small town of Melides on over 13 acres, the home is a modern homage to traditional medieval Mediterranean estates designed as observation posts that overlook vast agricultural holdings and faraway vistas.
Designed as one seamless space, the courtyard and terrace are settled into the hillside around a central terrace that functions as a common area accessible from every room. Strongly characterized interiors and exteriors flow seamlessly throughout creating a bright and open modern habitat that is light, airy and dramatically engaging. With three en suite bedrooms and a bunk room that the kids will love, the house is family-friendly and large enough for groups to share. The state-of-the-art kitchen joins with the open-plan dining and living areas overlooking the pool and courtyard and is ideal for entertaining.
Capturing the lovely private views of the natural landscape and the Atlantic beyond creates a sense of tranquillity and meditative calm here. Named one of the Top-10 houses of 2014 by Dezeen and one of the 50 best houses of 2014 by Archdaily Magazine, it's easy to see why.
MELIDES
Located in a rural Serra do Grandola valley, in the traditional Alentejo village of Melides, the house is ideally positioned to enjoy both the countryside and the Atlantic coastal areas of the Alentejo.
Praia de Melides is a five-mile-long stretch of sand that separates the sea and the lagoon with lots of unspoiled beach access. The house is just a short drive south of the sleepy fishing town of Comporta and the Troia Peninsula and just above Santiago do Cacem the ancient Moorish and later colonial community with quaint cobblestone streets and fortifications.
Nearby Abela and Alvalade are small Alatejan villages along the river Sado near Santo Andre Lagoon and the long stretches of white sand beaches. The stunning ancient Celtic settlement of Mirobriga is a short drive away and not to be missed. Setubal and Lisbon are just over an hour north.
LOCATION
Melides, Portugal. Nearest Airport: Lisbon International Airport (35km)
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring through Fall
