Category: Civil Architecture > Palace
District: Lisboa > Cascais > Cascais
The building of the former Town Hall, also known as the Palace of the Counts of Guarda, is located in the heart of Cascais, in a privileged location next to Praça 5 de Outubro. Its central position, near the bay, has always placed it within the pulse of the town, witnessing its evolution over the centuries. Its elegant facade complements the historic and maritime atmosphere of the area, inviting observation of its details.
Erected in 1821, this imposing building was designed to house the Cascais Town Hall, serving as the seat of municipal administration for several decades. However, in 1898, the municipal council moved to a new location, and the building was subsequently sold in 1917. Throughout the 20th century, it served various purposes, from a casino to other services, adapting to the dynamics of the town and the changing owners that marked its trajectory.
The building's architecture is markedly Pombaline style, reflecting the sobriety and elegance typical of the era. The main facade is one of its most notable elements, organized with clarity through pilasters that divide it vertically and pinnacles that top the structure. On the ground floor, a central portal with a curved arch and straight windows stands out, while the upper floor features balcony windows and a more elaborate and decorated central window. On the facade, it is possible to observe the Coat of Arms of Portugal and a clock installed in 1876, elements that lend a solemn and historical character to the ensemble.
Inside, the building preserves tiles dating from 1940, which adorn its walls. These ceramic panels are a testament to Portuguese decorative art, depicting figures of evangelists and saints, enriching the space with an artistic and spiritual dimension. This contrast between the interior decoration and the 18th-century architecture of the exterior offers an interesting perspective on the building's evolution and adaptation over time.
Currently, the former Town Hall Building continues to play a relevant role in the life of Cascais. Part of its structure houses the presidency's headquarters and other municipal services, maintaining a connection to local administration. On the ground floor, visitors can explore the Town Museum, a space that is part of the cultural route of the Museum Quarter, inviting the discovery of Cascais' history and heritage, and reinforcing the importance of this building in the town's cultural landscape.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palácio_dos_Condes_da_Guarda
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.69684903491927,-9.420590601830703
Coordinates DMS: 38°41'48.7"N 09°25'14.1"W
Weather Cascais
On-duty Pharmacy Cascais
