Casa do Miradouro

Casa do Miradouro is a historic house in the old centre of Viseu, Portugal, with roots in the 16th century. Today it is home to the Archaeological Pole of Viseu António Almeida Henriques and the archaeological collection of José Coelho. It suits visitors who want to pair Renaissance architecture with a look at local history while exploring the old town.

What is Casa do Miradouro?

It is a former residence that has become a place devoted to archaeology and culture. Since 2019 it has served as the headquarters of the Archaeological Pole of Viseu, a municipal service that brings together the city's archaeology resources. The building was refurbished beforehand, with works completed in 2013.

Who built it?

According to available sources, the house was commissioned in the early 16th century, possibly in 1528, by Fernão Ortiz de Vilhegas, who held the post of chantre (cathedral choir master) at Viseu Cathedral for several decades. He was the nephew of Bishop Diogo Ortiz de Vilhegas. The design is attributed to the Italian architect Francesco de Cremona and shows Renaissance features.

What remains of the original building?

The house keeps traces of its early character, above all its Renaissance doorway. For centuries it was home to wealthy families, and the municipal authorities acquired it in the 1980s.

What can you see inside?

The main draw is the archaeological collection of José Coelho, a notable Viseu intellectual of the 20th century. The exhibition "José Coelho: The Passion for the Past" presents the legacy of the pioneers of archaeology in the Viseu region. Beyond the display, the building hosts the working side of the Archaeological Pole: an archaeological reserve, a research support office, a documentation centre and a service for heritage mediation and education.

Other roles of the building

In the past Casa do Miradouro also housed the Regional Music Conservatory of Viseu and Viseu Novo, the urban rehabilitation company. It has also been used for concerts, which is why local press describes it as a former noble residence, an archaeology hub and a music venue.

How to find it

The house stands in the historic centre, close to the cathedral and the Grão Vasco Museum. From the cathedral, walk about 200 metres downhill along the street and you arrive in front of the building. It is easy to fit into a wider walk around the old town.

Frequently asked questions

Which century is Casa do Miradouro from? The 16th century; 1528 is given as a possible construction date.

What is inside today? The Archaeological Pole of Viseu and the José Coelho archaeological collection.

Is it near the cathedral? Yes, roughly 200 metres downhill from the cathedral and near the Grão Vasco Museum.

Is the building Renaissance? Yes, it keeps a Renaissance doorway among other traces, and the design is linked to Francesco de Cremona.

When was it renovated? It was refurbished in 2013 and has had its current role since 2019.

Check current opening hours and ticket details on the Archaeological Pole's website or at the local tourist office before your visit, as they may change.