Palace of the Marquises of Praia and Monforte

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Tourist Attraction

District: Évora > Estremoz > Estremoz > Santo André

Location

The Palace of the Marquises of Praia and Monforte is located in the Santo André area, in the city of Estremoz. Its urban location allows for easy integration into the discovery route of the locality, being accessible for those exploring the city streets on foot.

Origins and Historical Legacy

The history of the Palace of the Marquises of Praia and Monforte dates back to the first quarter of the 18th century, when its construction was commissioned by Luis Coutinho de Albergaria Freire e Mendonça. This nobleman, who held important positions in the Royal Household and in the Estremoz region, conceived the palace as a prestigious residence, reflecting his family's status at the time.

Architecture and Interior Ambiance

The palace's structure spans two floors, revealing architecture characteristic of its period of construction. As visitors explore its spaces, they can appreciate elements such as marble-lined corridors, stained-glass windows, and ceilings with decorative carvings. A careful recent rehabilitation has allowed for the preservation and enhancement of the 19th-century mural paintings that adorn several rooms and the staircase ceiling, lending the interior an atmosphere rich in historical and artistic details.

The ground floor includes a patio, a space that occasionally hosts outdoor cultural events, and various rooms housing the collection of the Rural Museum. On the upper floor, a set of spaces is dedicated to temporary exhibitions, offering a dynamic perspective on local art and culture.

Cultural and Heritage Vocation

After a careful restoration, which culminated in its reopening in 2015, the palace has assumed a significant cultural vocation for Estremoz. Currently, it functions as an exhibition center and hosts the Rural Museum, presenting a panorama of Alentejo life and customs. Its spaces serve as a venue for temporary exhibitions by regional artists, with a program that changes regularly throughout the year, inviting repeated visits to discover new artistic displays.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt