A neoclassical structure from the first half of the 19th century is recognized as the Ajuda National Palace. When King Luis I ascended to the throne, it became a royal home, and it remained one until the Monarchy's demise (1910). However, it still displays its ornamental works of art in a lively and authentic manner.
It still displays significant art collections and authentic interiors. As a museum, it compiles significant collections of decorative arts from the 18th and 19th centuries, including paintings, sculptures, photography, fabrics, furniture, ceramics, tapestries, glassware, porcelain, etc. Here, the President of the Republic still holds the most significant State ceremonies.
Explore Palácio Nacional da Ajuda
- A central hallway of stairs and elevators connects the interior's interconnected halls. The Sala dos Archeiros (Archers Hall) is accessible by a stairway next to two niches with the statues of Justiça and Prudência in the main floor entry hall. You can travel through a series of rooms and galleries on this floor.
- Private apartments are on the main floor, starting with the Music Room, and Staterooms are on the top floor. You can take a sneak peek into these rooms to experience royal living.
- The tower eventually became a two- or three-story building with an ashlar limestone façade on an inclining piece of ground.
- The main symmetrical façade faces east with a central body and tympanum extending to two lateral towers. This façade has two levels, with the lower level being indicated by three arches and the upper and lower levels, respectively, being supported by Tuscan-Ionian columns and a veranda.
- The two Roman arch windows on the second level of the main body are guarded by balusters, split by six Tuscan-Ionic columns and topped by a frieze of garlands.