The Casa do Guarda was already showing signs of degradation, but the passage of storm Kristin has worryingly exacerbated some of its vulnerabilities, particularly in terms of the roofing, protection against infiltrations, and the overall conservation of the building.
This situation has made the need for action even more urgent. The Casa do Guarda is one of the symbols of the former Mata da Ota and the historical connection of the parish to the Serra de Ota, its paths, its landscape, and its collective memory.
The immediate goal of the operation Guarda à Casa! is simple and urgent: do not let the Casa do Guarda fall.
The recovery should be carried out in a phased, responsible, and transparent manner, starting with the stabilization and safeguarding of the building. Every contribution — whether through donations, materials, services, equipment, or labor — helps bring the community closer to this goal.
More than just recovering a house, we want to restore its mission: to serve the Serra de Ota, welcome people, tell the story of the former Mata da Ota, and support activities related to heritage, nature, and the community.
The Casa do Guarda still has a future. With everyone's help.