Casa do Penedo, a Portuguese house built between boulders

Ever imagined living in a house chiselled out of rock? Casa do Penedo is such an architectural wonder located in northern Portugal that attracts a large number of travellers. It is a house built from four large boulders on a hilltop in the middle of a wind electricity farm. At present, Casa do Penedo functions as a museum and visitors can spend some time in the midst of a picturesque landscape.

The construction of the amazing house was started back in 1972 and completed two years later. Designed and built by an engineer from Guimaraes, Casa do Penedo was initially used by the owners as a holiday retreat. Later, the house became a museum exhibiting items related to the region’s past and historic photographs.

Though the house has been built mostly with rock, other construction materials also have been used. For instance, the staircase inside is made of wood; there are glass windows and a metal door. The interiors flaunt a fireplace, considering the cold winters and a sofa made of concrete and eucalyptus wood. Each room in the house looks different as the structure was fashioned out of boulders. Another curious aspect of Casa do Penedo is that it lacks power supply even when situated in a wind power farm. Another attraction of the house, which has a thorn fence, is a pool created out of rock.

As the house blends seamlessly with the natural landscape and presents a unique sight, it draws a stream of visitors. After images of Casa do Penedo became viral on social media, it became an even more popular attraction.

How to reach

Casa do Penedo is between Celorico de Basto and Fafe in northern Portugal. Travel on N311 from Fafe to Morera de Rey and deviate to Lamerinho over a hill that arrives before the Versia Cova. Drive carefully as the path is very steep. You will arrive at Casa do Penedo at the top of this hill.