National Palace of Ajuda

Often overlooked by visitors exploring Belém, the National Palace of Ajuda is one of Lisbon’s hidden royal treasures. Unlike many historic palaces, most of the rooms remain fully furnished, allowing visitors to experience how the Portuguese royal family lived during the 19th century. If you enjoy history, royal life, and lavish interiors, this is one of the most rewarding palace visits in Lisbon.

História:

Construction of the palace began after the devastating 1755 earthquake, when the Portuguese royal family abandoned their former residence in downtown Lisbon. Designed to become the new royal palace, the project took decades to develop and was never fully completed.

Despite this, Ajuda became the official residence of the Portuguese monarchy during the 19th century. Its richly decorated rooms, ceremonial halls, and royal collections offer a fascinating glimpse into the final years of the Portuguese royal court before the establishment of the Republic in 1910.