The original building of São Bento Palace was erected as a convent in 1598,
but was later renovated as an enormous white Neoclassical building to become
today's Portuguese Parliament.
Tall columns support the pediment, and four
statues on pedestals at the entrance represent Prudence, Strength, Justice,
and Temperance.
The interior is grandiose, with marble pillars,
Neoclassical statues, and other works of art. You may look inside when
parliament is in session and debates are open to the public.
Other opportunities to see the interior of the palace are when it occasionally hosts contemporary art exhibitions.
A previous one was organized by Porto's Serralves Museum, and another showed sculptures from the
Berardo collection.
Ride Lisbon's metro, buses, and trams for FREE with the Lisboa Card.
Where: Rua de São Bento, São Bento/Bairro Alto
How: Metro - Rato Station or walk down from Principe Real's Praça das Flores
Principe
Real - Charming leafy square.
Basilica da Estrela -
Pretty domed basilica.
Estrela
Gardens - Pleasant park with exotic plants.
Book your room for free (no booking fees) and pay later at the hotel:
HOTELS SEARCHCentral, stylishly furnished, and cheaper than many hotels:
APARTMENTS SEARCHStylish, award-winning budget accommodation in the city center:
HOSTELS SEARCHSkip the long lines for taxis or the hassle of navigating public transportation when you arrive at the airport, and go straight to your hotel:
AIRPORT TRANSFERSGo on a day trip or on an organized tour around Lisbon:
TOURS & TICKETS SEARCHPlanning to travel around Portugal? Save time and look for the best deals here:
CAR RENTAL SEARCHSave time and money: Get FREE or reduced admission to most of Lisbon's attractions and ride the city's metro, buses, and trams for free with the Lisboa Card:
ORDER YOUR CARDJoin GoLisbon on Facebook for regular updates on what's happening in the city:
GOLISBON FACEBOOK