The origins of Quinta da Raza lie in a famous estate located in Veade, Celorico de Basto, known as ‘A Casa do Outeiro,’ likely of medieval origin and classified since 1977 as a Property of Public Interest. The first known owner of Casa do Outeiro was Francisco Gonçalves in the early 17th century. However, references to this initial building are scarce. The current configuration of Casa do Outeiro dates back to the 19th century, resulting from a reconstruction after the great fire of 1860 that left the building almost completely destroyed. The said renovation, carried out by Inácio Xavier Teixeira de Barros, a nobleman of the Royal House, was naturally done in the style of the time, embodying a mix of seventeenth and nineteenth-century architectural trends. There are clear architectural and stylistic affinities with the neighboring ‘Casa da Boavista,’ a connection that extended to members of both families.

The main façade features a pediment with the coat of arms and a quartered shield with the insignias of the Teixeiras (1st), Macedos (2nd), Barros (3rd), and Carvalhos (4th). Also noteworthy is the high number of glazed windows and doors, totaling 26, indicative of the family’s social status. This is further emphasized by the crenellated tower, reminiscent of ancient medieval fortifications.

Unlike other manor houses, Casa do Outeiro does not allocate the ground floor to agricultural or livestock dependencies. Warehouses, cellars, presses, pigeon houses, cowsheds, and others are situated near the main house, providing more comfort and privacy. Indeed, agricultural vehicles did not have access to the ground floor, adorned with granite paving and a balustrade, facing which the gardens with tanks adorned with boxwood and japonicas spread out, following the tradition of the Basto region.