Baldaya Palace

Category: Civil Architecture > Palace

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Benfica

Location

Baldaya Palace is located on Estrada de Benfica, one of the main thoroughfares of this vibrant Lisbon parish. Integrated into an urban context, the palace is in an area that maintains a characteristic city pace, while offering a distinct point of interest in the Benfica area.

A Historical Journey

The history of Baldaya Palace has its roots in the 18th century, a period when it functioned as a rural estate. The palace's current name is linked to Maria Joana Baldaya, who resided there between 1840 and 1859. Over the decades, the property underwent various transformations and served multiple purposes under different owners.

At the end of the 19th century, around 1890, the building began functioning as a guesthouse. Later, in 1908, the State acquired the palace to house the Veterinary and Bacteriological Pathology Laboratory. A significant change occurred in 2015, when the property was transferred and adapted to become a significant cultural hub of the Portuguese capital.

Architecture and Gardens

Baldaya Palace is an old manor house that reflects architectural evolution through its different phases of expansion. Although its essence dates back to the 18th century, the complex includes annexes built in the 20th century, which were integrated into the original structure.

The property still preserves part of its historic gardens. These green spaces, though urban, invite a pause and allow one to observe the beauty and design that the palace preserves, bearing witness to its long trajectory in the heart of Benfica.

A Cultural Hub

Currently, Baldaya Palace stands as an active cultural center and a reference point in Benfica and Lisbon. Its spaces have been carefully adapted to host and promote a diverse range of cultural activities, contributing to the city's artistic life.

This site, with its valuable historical and architectural heritage, is today a meeting place and a celebration of culture. Baldaya Palace demonstrates how an old residence can be revitalized and put at the service of the community, welcoming new generations of visitors and enriching Lisbon's cultural offerings.

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