Characterization of an Erudite Construction in Adobe

Jorge Mascarenhas, Lurdes Belgas, and Nuno Nobre

Polytechnique Institute of Tomar, Portugal

Abstract: Building with earth using adobe bricks is an ancient technique which is believed to have been introduced in Portugal during the Arab occupation and then spread throughout the country. However, little is known about its use in erudite buildings associated with the Art Nouveau period or about the pathologies existing in some identified cases and potential solutions for their rehabilitation. This article uses as an example a manor house in adobe located in Valada (Cartaxo) and known as Casal Francisco José. The house was built at the beginning of the 20th century and belonged to a member of the Republican Party. The author analyses the building system and architectural characteristics, including the influence of the decorative exuberance of the Art Nouveau style.