In the Middle Ages, the Portuguese Crown granted the territory that includes the Estate of Comenda to the Military Order of Santiago.
During its golden age in the 15th and 16th centuries, several Portuguese kings visited the property, including King Afonso V and King Manuel I.
In 1551, the administration of the military orders, including Santiago, was transferred to the Crown, with the kings of Portugal becoming the masters of the orders.
Following the extinction of religious orders, in 1834, the nationalization of their assets took place, meaning that the Comenda became State heritage, which was later sold to private owners. Since then, the property has passed through various hands up to the present day.
Royal Presence
In 1458, King Afonso V passed through Mouguelas with a fleet of 93 ships while waiting for favorable weather to depart for Alcácer Ceguer. The North African city was conquered between October 23 and 24 of that year.
On May 3, 1506, King Manuel I summoned the officials of Lisbon’s municipal chamber and the four guild representatives of the city to a meeting in Mouguelas scheduled for the following day.