The construction of this beautiful and imposing building, of the end of XIX century is wrapped in a peculiar story. It was born from a dream and soon turned into a nightmare. Its owner, Manuel Brandão, made a fortune in Brazil. When he returned he wanted to build a house as there was no equal in Oliveira de Azeméis and surrounding area. The initial enthusiasm was quickly consumed in the abyss of the money claimed for the costs of the construction. Unable to support the pressure caused by that big contract, Manuel Brandão commits suicide with a gunshot in his head. The widow, Mrs. Joana Augusta de Castro Brandão, although suffering by the lost, she was a determined woman and doesn’t rest until she saw the house finished. Still lived long years in a small palace in French style, in the company of their children. When, in 1930, the Marechal Carmona, President of the Republic, visited Oliveira de Azeméis to inaugurate the monument to the Dead of the Great War, this was the place chosen to stay the night.
Location: Oliveira de Azeméis
