NATIONAL PALACE OF QUELUZ (PALÁCIO DE QUELUZ)

Between 1742 and 1758, Mateus Vicente de Oliveira, renowned for his work on the Palace at Mafra, undertook the transformation of a country house into a majestic palace. However, it was the announcement of Prince Pedro's marriage to Princess Maria in 1760 that spurred a new phase of construction. Jean-Baptiste Robillion, an esteemed architect and goldsmith, was tasked with enhancing the palace's grandness to befit royalty. Under Robillion's direction, the throne room and private chambers pavilion were added, elevating Queluz's status as a regal residence.

In 1784, Manuel Caetano de Sousa assumed control of the construction, implementing further modifications to the second floor and private apartments. Following a fire at the Royal Complex of Ajuda in 1794, Queluz assumed the role of the official royal residence for Queen Maria I and Prince Regent João VI. Additional upgrades were made to accommodate the household guards and court.

Despite its grandeur, Queluz Palace became a gilded cage for Queen Maria, who struggled with bouts of mania and depression following the death of her husband and oldest son. The Portuguese royal family resided at Queluz until their departure to Brazil in 1807, fleeing Napoleon's advancing troops.

Following the departure of King João VI and the Portuguese Court to Brazil in 1821, the Palace entered a period of decline. Upon their return, Queen Carlota Joaquina resumed residence at Queluz, albeit in semi-exile. During the tumultuous wars between siblings, King Miguel (1802-1866) sought refuge in Queluz Palace. Tragically, Miguel succumbed to tuberculosis in the same room where he was born, just 36 years earlier, following the liberal victory.

In 1957, the Queen Maria Pavilion in the East wing became the official residence for foreign Heads of State during their visits. Over the years, Queluz Palace has served various purposes, including housing a zoo in the early 19th century. Today, the Royal Guard building across the courtyard has been converted into a Pousada.

Designated as a National Monument in 1910, Queluz Palace joined the Network of European Royal Residences in 2013, further solidifying its historical significance and cultural importance.

The unassuming exterior of the palace belies its opulent interior. The Throne Room, affectionately known as the Big House, stands as the most lavish of the three staterooms within the Palace of Queluz, designed to awe visitors. Crafted in the regency-rococo style, its walls are adorned with intricate carvings by sculptor Silvestre de Faria Lobo, while the figurative paintings on the ceiling, painted by João de Freitas Leitão, add to its grandeur. Enormous chandeliers hang from the centre of the ceilings, a testament to its grand past when it hosted lavish balls and concerts during Pedro and Maria's reign. Today, the Throne Room continues its legacy by serving as the venue for state banquets and other important state events hosted by the President of the Republic.

Equally sumptuous is the Ambassador Room, featuring stunning painted ceilings by Bruno José do Vale and Francisco de Melo. The central panel depicts the royal family in a serenade, replicating the original canvas by Italian painter Giovanni Berardi, which was tragically destroyed in a fire in 1934. The room's chequered marble floor, once graced by dignitaries paying homage to the Prince Regent, now stands as a reminder of its regal past. Ornate mirrors adorning the walls reflect the shimmer of gold gilding, adding to the room's magnificence.

The palace kitchens have been well maintained and now houses the Cozinha Velha restaurant, owned by the Pousada. The restaurant features a large stone fireplace as its centerpiece and the tables are arranged under a beautiful wooden ceiling. Authentic copper cooking utensils hang from the walls. Dining at this restaurant is a great way to experience history, and the desserts are made using original convent recipes. | Daily: 12h30 - 15h00pm/19h30 - 22h00

Restaurant Contact Details
Largo do Palácio Nacional, 2745-191, Queluz, Portugal.
38° 46' 19.2" N | 09° 17' 31.2" W | +351 214 356 158
guest@pousadas.pt |  Website

Often hailed as the "Versailles of Portugal," the gardens of Queluz are a testament to exuberance. Dotted throughout are statues depicting characters from classical mythology, standing amidst various parterre gardens like the Hanging Garden and the Malta Garden, each showcasing unique designs. A network of pathways, including a series of avenues radiating from the main building, forms an intricate geometrical grid connecting lakes and water features.

The centrepiece of the gardens is the majestic Medallions Lake, conceived by French architect Jean-Baptiste Robillion in 1764, boasting a star-like octagonal shape. Another notable feature is the "Portico dos Cavalinhos," a garden temple flanked by equestrian statues and sphinxes adorned in 18th-century attire.

Besides French influences, the gardens also reflect Flemish design with the inclusion of canals, the largest of which lies near the Lion's Staircase. Stretching over 100 metres, these canals feature walls adorned with tiled panels depicting maritime scenes, reminiscent of the grand festivals held during the 18th century, where fully rigged ships sailed in procession.

Portuguese School of Equestrian Art

Established in 1979, the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art traces its roots back to the Real Picaria, the esteemed equestrian academy of the Portuguese Court founded in the 18th century at Queluz. Dedicated to upholding the heritage of traditional Portuguese equestrian art, the school is renowned for its commitment to preserving, teaching, and promoting this rich cultural tradition.

At the heart of the school's activities is the training and showcasing of the famed Lusitano breed, nurtured at the Alter Real Stud Farm and expertly trained on-site. Visitors have the unique opportunity to witness captivating performances and training sessions at the Henrique Calado Riding Ring in Belém, Lisbon, where the school opens its doors to the general public. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian enthusiast or simply intrigued by the artistry of horsemanship, experiencing the elegance and grace of these magnificent creatures is an unforgettable experience.

Presentations Tuesdays - Saturdays (except the last Saturday of each month): 10h00 - 13h00
Gala Last Friday of each month (with some exceptions)

Contact Details
Henrique Calado Riding Ring, Calçada da Ajuda, 1300-006, Belém, Lisbon, Portugal.
38° 42' 01.5"N | 09° 11' 59.8"W | +351 219 237 300
info@parquesdesintra.pt |  Website

TRAVELLING TO THE QUELUZ PALACE

Queluz Palace is located half way between Lisbon and Sintra, about ten miles (16km) and is easy accessible by public transport from both places.

Contact Details
Largo Palácio de Queluz, 2745-191 Queluz, Portugal.
38° 46' 19.2" N | 09° 17' 31.2" W | +351 219 237 300
info@parquesdesintra.pt |  Website