Casa da Tapada

Casa da Tapada is a 16th-century manor house in the municipality of Amares, in northern Portugal, in the parish of Fiscal. The house is protected as an Imóvel de Interesse Público, a property of public interest. It still stands at the heart of a working wine estate, so a visit to its history pairs naturally with a glass of local wine.

Who built Casa da Tapada?

The house was commissioned in 1540 by Francisco de Sá de Miranda, a poet and humanist. He bought the lands of the old Bárrio da Fonte estate, which then became Quinta da Tapada. The poet and philosopher lived here as a self-chosen retreat from at least 1530 until his death in 1558. That makes the place significant for anyone interested in Renaissance Portuguese literature.

What does the building look like?

Casa da Tapada is an example of residential civil architecture in the mannerist and baroque styles. In the second half of the 17th century the house was rebuilt. During the same period the structure of the chapel, which belongs to the complex, was also altered.

What is on the estate?

The property covers 25 hectares. Vineyards take up 12 hectares, and about 1.5 hectares are occupied by the main house and its immediate surroundings. Besides the house, which holds public-interest status, the grounds include the chapel, a wine cellar and other buildings.

Is wine still made at Casa da Tapada?

Yes. The estate produces vinho verde ("green wine") and a sparkling wine under the Casa da Tapada name. Vinho verde is the signature style of northern Portugal, so the stop fits well into a trip through the Minho region.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Casa da Tapada? In the municipality of Amares, parish of Fiscal, in northern Portugal.

When was the house built? In the 16th century. Construction was ordered in 1540, and the house was rebuilt in the second half of the 17th century.

Who lived here? The poet and humanist Francisco de Sá de Miranda, from at least 1530 until his death in 1558.

Is it a protected monument? Yes, it holds the status of Imóvel de Interesse Público.

What is produced here? Vinho verde and a sparkling wine under the Casa da Tapada label, from vineyards covering 12 hectares.

How should I plan a visit? Check current visiting and tasting arrangements with the producer, since the property is an active wine estate.