An abandoned palace in central Portugal that has been left to decay for three decades has gone on the market with an asking price of €1.35 million (approximately £1.17 million). The property, known as Palacete do Jardim, is situated in the city of Covilhã and was officially designated a Monument of Public Interest in 2022 due to its architectural and cultural significance.
Historical Background
Built in the 1920s, the mansion was commissioned by the family of Joseph Bouhon, a Belgian businessman who owned a factory during the city's industrial boom. The Bouhon family resided in the property for several years before it later assumed administrative roles, serving as a base for the Labour Court and an INATEL office, according to Idealista.
Architectural Features
Despite being considered one of the most characteristic examples of Art Nouveau architecture in Portugal, the palace has stood empty for around 30 years and is now in need of major restoration. The palace itself measures 850 square metres and sits on a plot of more than 10,000 square metres, featuring nine bedrooms, six bathrooms, and a series of balconies and porches. Although there are evident signs of deterioration across the property, much of its original character remains, with richly decorated interiors including wood panelling, murals, and ornate detailing. Outside, the facades are adorned with flowing natural motifs and are crafted from granite, wrought iron, ceramic, and marble.
Current Status and Potential
Estate agent Prummo Imóveis, which is marketing the property, suggested that the mansion could be transformed into a 'charming residence, institutional headquarters, or a tourism or cultural investment'. The palace also offers sweeping views across the Zêzere valley and towards the Serra da Estrela, the country's highest mountain range, placing it in a prime location within the city.
Covilhã: The 'Portuguese Manchester'
Once dubbed the 'Manchester of Portugal' for its thriving wool and textile industries, Covilhã retains much of its industrial heritage, with former factories, workshops, and workers' housing still open for visiting, according to Casa Das Muralhas. Today, the city stands as a lively university hub and a gateway for visitors exploring the Serra da Estrela, ideal for skiing in winter or hiking in warmer months. Cultural attractions include the Museum of Sacred Art, as well as panoramic viewpoints such as the Miradouro das Portas do Sol and the striking Carpinteira Pedestrian Bridge, alongside colourful street art that lines its winding, cobbled roads.
Brits Moving to Portugal
It comes as an increasing number of Brits are flocking to set up a new life in Portugal, with UK nationals living there tripling in the past decade. The number of UK nationals residing in the popular European destination almost trebled between 2014 and 2024. According to figures from Portuguese immigration authority AIMA, back in 2014 there were 16,559 Brits living in Portugal. In 2024, this jumped to a whopping 48,238 UK residents.
Shifting Perspectives
But the way people are viewing Portugal as a possible place to live is shifting. Rather than just a holiday-home destination, Brits are increasingly seeing it as a location to move to permanently. A change in lifestyle and the locations available to move to are big pulls for Brits looking for a fresh start. Stephen Baldwin moved to Portugal with his wife and three children recently explained: 'Lifestyle factors were a big part of our reasons for moving. We wanted to spend more time outdoors and enjoy a more active life. The plentiful sunshine certainly makes that possible. We regularly stroll to the nearby beach and I use my electric bike to explore the coastline. My wellbeing has benefited significantly from moving to Portugal. The sunshine and active outdoor lifestyle make a big difference – it's a much healthier way to live.'
Portuguese Chamber general manager Christina Hippisley has run 'Moving to Portugal Show' events for a decade and has noticed a shift in people's interests in the country. 'When we began running the events, attendees were largely looking for second homes and often nearing retirement. Now, their focus is much more on Portugal as a destination to live, do business and raise a family,' she said.
