the former-college is located in an urban context, addorssing the "avenida da boavista" (to the south) and the "rua de pedro hispano"to the north). to the east of the avenue are other palacettes, among them the former-residence of the viscountess of lobõo (already classified). to the west are larger buildings, most modern, including the hotel meridien. the building is sited on an elevated plateau relative the "avenida da boavista" taking the form of a trapezoid, with the rear of the building limited by high, granite wall supporting the terrain. in the front, along "avenida da boavista" is a similar granite wall, but of smaller dimensions, surmounted by iron grate.