Holistic Rehabilitation of a Historic Quinta in the Douro Valley

Abstract

Quinta Vale de Abraão is located in the Douro valley region, some 100 km to the east of Oporto in one of the world’s most traditional winemaking regions, declared World Heritage by UNESCO in 2001. The main building, built in the early twentieth century and burned down in 1997, contained architectural features of various styles and periods. This article describes the project conducted on the ensemble over more than two decades, resulting in a harmonious addition of new volumes and a holistic rehabilitation of existing structures along traditional lines, allowing this former quinta manor house to be turned into a spectacular hotel overlooking the Douro.