Casa Roque Gameiro in Venteira

Casa Roque Gameiro is one of the oldest and most picturesque houses in the municipality of Amadora, on the outskirts of Lisbon. It stands in the parish of Venteira. It was built between 1898 and 1901 as the family home of Alfredo Roque Gameiro, a Portuguese painter celebrated for his watercolours. Today it serves as a cultural centre and hosts local exhibitions.

Who was Roque Gameiro?

Alfredo Roque Gameiro was one of Portugal's leading watercolourists at the turn of the 20th century. He also worked in lithography. His artistic talent passed to his children: his daughter Raquel Gameiro and son Ruy Roque Gameiro both have their place in Portuguese art history. The house in Venteira is therefore tied to a whole family of artists.

What does the building look like?

The painter designed the house himself, guided by nationalist ideals. The result is a distinctly Portuguese design that gathers architectural traits from various parts of the country. Naturalist, revivalist and folk elements appear together in a style popular in the late 19th century. The house reads like a collection of motifs from across Portugal under one roof.

What stands out inside?

The finest feature is the azulejos, the traditional Portuguese tiles. The interior of the main floor is finished with white tile trim, and two medallions on the walls represent allegories of watercolour and lithography. It is a clear tribute to the trade of the man who lived here.

One of the most interesting sets is the family dining room, tiled with a pattern designed by Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro, the famous Portuguese ceramist and illustrator. The design draws on naturalist themes. For anyone who loves azulejos and applied art, this is a strong reason to visit.

Heritage protection

In 2012 Casa Roque Gameiro was classified as a Monument of Public Interest (Imóvel de Interesse Público), one of the forms of heritage protection in Portugal.

A mural inspired by the artists

Nearby there is also a mural inspired by the work of Roque Gameiro and Bordalo Pinheiro. It came out of the "Pinta na Rua" workshop, part of the first edition of the "Conversas na Rua" project. It shows that both artists still inspire local people.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Casa Roque Gameiro? In the parish of Venteira, municipality of Amadora, in the Lisbon area.

When was the house built? Between 1898 and 1901.

Who designed it? The painter Alfredo Roque Gameiro, who lived here with his family.

What should I see inside? The azulejo tiles, including the medallions with allegories of watercolour and lithography, and the dining room with a pattern by Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro.

Is the house a protected monument? Yes, it has been classified as a Monument of Public Interest since 2012.

What is inside today? A cultural centre with local exhibitions. Check the programme on the Amadora municipality or Venteira parish website before you go.

Who is it for?

Fans of azulejos, Portuguese watercolour and turn-of-the-century architecture. The visit combines easily with a trip to Lisbon, since Amadora lies next door and shows a less touristy side of the region.