The Estate

The history of Casa de Calhariz dates back to 1483, when D. Gil Vaz da Cunha purchased the land from the heirs of Mestre Joane, a nobleman of the household of the father of King Manuel I. To secure the king’s approval for a longer-lasting concession, he and his family cleared the land and planted vineyards and orchards, ensuring the region’s productivity.

In 1504, King Manuel I granted him the ownership of the land for four generations, and D. Gil’s daughter, D. Maria Silva, founded the Morgado de Calhariz on July 14 of that same year.

At the beginning of the 16th century, the fi rst circular Chapel of Calhariz was built, which now houses an exhibition on Serra da Arrábida and Casa Palmela. Around 1520, the estate was passed to D. Francisco de Souza, the nephew of D. Maria da Silva, who served as the treasurer of King João III.

In 1693, architect João Rodrigues Mouro designed a hydraulic wine press at the estate. During the 1660s, D. Francisco de Souza (1630–1711) made significant alterations to the main house, which dated back to the 15th century, and the current chapel dates from this period. His family, including his brother D. João de Souza and his nephew D. Luís de Souza, played a key role in the works on the estate, which included a garden that is believed to have been designed by Le Nôtre, the famous architect of the Palace of Versailles.

In 1735, D. Manuel de Souza married Princess D. Maria Anna Leopoldine, and the family continued to expand. His son, D. Alexandre, became an important diplomat, representing Portugal at various international events, including the Congress of Vienna in 1804. Later, he became Minister of Foreign Affairs and, in 1833, was made Duke of Palmela for services rendered to the State and the Crown.

After the death of D. Pedro de Souza and Holstein in 1850, his son D. Domingos succeeded him as Duke. In 1857, the renowned writer Alexandre Herculano leased the estate and dedicated himself to producing various agricultural products.

D. Maria Luísa Teixeira de Sampayo de Souza e Holstein, who became the 3rd Duchess of Palmela, stood out as a renowned sculptor and patron of the arts, promoting artists of the time. Her death in 1909 was followed by the ascension of her daughter, D. Helena, as the 4th Duchess.

During the Second World War, D. Domingos, the 5th Duke, was appointed ambassador in London, utilizing his important connections during a critical time.

Quinta de Calhariz has continued to develop in the 21st century, with a focus on sustainability, agriculture, and environmental and cultural tourism projects.