Macro and microstructural characterisation of rendering mortars from the 18th century Fishing House of the Recreational Farm of Marqueses de Pombal (Portugal)

Abstract

The Casa da Pesca (Fishing House) is an 18th-century complex located within the Recreational Farm of Marqueses de Pombal in Oeiras, Portugal. The complex is located in the northern part of the farm and consists of the main house, surrounding gardens, the Taveira waterfall, and a pond. In 1940, the Casa da Pesca complex, along with the gardens and the Marquês de Pombal palace, was classified as a National Monument1, thus becoming subject to the protection and safeguarding regulations for cultural and built heritage. Due to the historical and cultural significance of the complex, the City Council of Oeiras requested the National Laboratory for Civil Engineering to conduct an extensive macro- and microstructural characterisation of the Casa da Pesca rendering mortars. The goal was to analyse the original renders and paintings and assess their characteristics and performance, in order to support the design of appropriate and effective future conservation and intervention measures.