An extravagant royal palace
Although this palace was never completed as planned due to the exile of the
royal family in Brazil caused by the Napoleonic invasion, it is still one of
Europe's most perfect romantic buildings. Its interior is richly filled
with furniture, tapestries, statues, and extravagant decorative arts, the
result of unprecedented wealth in the 18th when diamonds were discovered in
the then Portuguese colony of Brazil. Of note is the ceiling in the Winter
Garden that was a gift from the Viceroy of Egypt, the Music Room and its
precious oriental porcelain from the Ch'ien period, the Ballroom, and the
Ambassadors' Room.
But the most impressive are the enormous Throne Room
corresponding to the entire south wing, and the Dining Room and its crystal
chandeliers, silk-covered chairs, and allegory of the birth of King João VI
on the frescoed ceiling. Visitors should also note the interesting
collection of clocks throughout the palace and the dinner service that is
one of the few European royal services to remain completely intact.
At the main entrance are 23 marble statues, each representing a certain
attribute such as generosity and gratitude, and across from the façade is a
monument dedicated to King Carlos and a church tower that is all that
remains of the demolished Church of Nossa Senhora da Ajuda.
Where: Largo da Ajuda, Belem
How: Tram 18
When: 10AM - 5PM (Closed Wed.)
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Ajuda
Botanical Garden - Beautiful gardens overlooking the river.
Jeronimos
Monastery - A World Heritage monument; Vasco da Gama's resting place.
Belem
Tower - The city's icon; a symbol of the Age of Discovery.
Discoveries
Monument - The world's explorers in stone.
Berardo Museum - World-class collection of modern art.
Coaches
Museum - The world's largest collection of magnificent royal coaches.
Maritime
Museum - The story of Portugal's pioneering role in world exploration at the sea.
Archaeology
Museum - Archaeological finds from over the centuries.
Belem Cultural
Center - Modern cultural center with regular exhibitions and events.
Tropical
Garden - Beautiful garden with rare plants from around the world.
Belem
Palace - The home of Portugal's President.
Memoria
Church - Elegant neoclassical church.
25
de Abril Bridge - Golden Gate's twin sister.
